Šiauliai sports centre director dismissed over drink-driving

Šiauliai Mayor Artūras Visockas has dismissed the director of the city’s Athletics and Wellness Centre, Mindaugas Bezaras, after he was caught driving under the influence and failed to inform his superiors, LRT.lt reported.

Bezaras was stopped near Kuršėnai on June 27 while driving a Volvo. A breathalyser recorded 0.64 parts per thousand of alcohol, which is considered minor intoxication and resulted in an administrative penalty rather than a criminal case.

On July 13, Bezaras was fined 800 euros and banned from driving for six months. After that ban expires, he will also be prohibited from driving for 12 months unless the vehicle is equipped with an alcohol ignition interlock.

The mayor decided to dismiss Bezaras after the city’s 790th anniversary celebrations. The decision states that the director had failed to inform the mayor about the offence and its legal consequences, and that the information became known only after it appeared in the media.

The mayor said the incident created a reputational risk for the centre and could reduce the confidence of its community and the public in its director. The decision also provides for payment of Bezaras’s salary and compensation for unused leave.

The mayor’s office said he would not comment on the decision. LRT.lt had previously reported that Bezaras had been caught driving under the influence and had prior convictions related to the distribution of pornography and fights.