Drink driver jailed after biting bystander during Richmond crash
Tuesday 8 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Finnian Crook has been sentenced to 20 months in prison following a reckless driving incident in Richmond. After flipping his car, the unlicensed driver bit a pensioner who attempted to intervene. The victim required stitches after the two-minute encounter.
Key facts
4 facts
- Finnian Thomas Crook sentenced to 20 months in prison on 8 September 2026
- The incident occurred on the afternoon of Monday, 25 May in Richmond
- Crook's breath alcohol reading was 1195mcg per litre of breath
- The victim was a 70-year-old man who required stitches and specialist care
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Finnian Thomas Crook, 33, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison in the Nelson District Court. The sentence follows his admission to charges including reckless driving, driving with excess breath alcohol, wounding with intent, and assault. Judge Noel Sainsbury noted that Crook had little recollection of the incident, which occurred at 1.45pm on Monday, 25 May.
The incident began when Crook, who was unlicensed, drove recklessly through Richmond and crashed into a parked vehicle, causing his car to flip and roll. After the crash, Crook attempted to re-enter his vehicle, leading to a confrontation with bystanders. He pushed one bystander in the chest and scratched another's wrist.
During the struggle, Crook bit a 70-year-old bystander on the left forearm for approximately two minutes. The bite was so forceful that bystanders were unable to pry his jaws open. The victim required stitches for the deep wound, which became infected and resulted in a referral to a specialist for suspected nerve and tendon damage.
While being restrained on the ground, Crook also kicked a third person in the back of the head. A breath test revealed Crook's alcohol level was 1195mcg per litre of breath, nearly five times the legal limit of 250mcg. Judge Sainsbury allowed Crook the opportunity to apply for home detention if a suitable rehabilitation address is found.
Where reports differ
- One report identifies the sentencing judge as Noel Sainsbury, while another report mentions Judge Richard Russell during a June plea appearance
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and Otago Daily Times.