A man from Belgium, who was diagnosed with a rare condition known as auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), has been acquitted of drunk-driving charges. His attorney confirmed the news on Monday.
Anse Ghesquiere, the defendant’s lawyer, mentioned that it was an “unfortunate coincidence” that her client worked at a brewery. However, three separate doctors who conducted independent examinations all confirmed that he indeed suffered from auto-brewery syndrome (ABS).
In the verdict, Belgian media reported that the judge highlighted the fact that the defendant, who remained unnamed in accordance with local judicial custom, did not exhibit any symptoms of intoxication.
The Bruges police court, having acquitted the man, did not promptly respond to an email from Reuters.
ABOUT ABS(auto-brewery syndrome):
According to Lisa Florin, a clinical biologist at the Belgian hospital AZ Sint-Lucas, individuals with this condition produce alcohol similar to that found in alcoholic beverages, but they typically experience fewer effects. Additionally, ABS is not a congenital condition; it can develop in individuals who already have other intestine-related health issues.
ALSO READ | Runaway Military Horses Gallop Through Central London, Contained by Police