Ex-X Factor star Chico found guilty of drink-driving

Yousseph Slimani, known as Chico from his X Factor appearance, has been convicted of drink-driving by Willesden Magistrates' Court. The conviction stems from an incident on December 13 when he was found driving a Vauxhall Astra with 40 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit. Slimani claimed he had consumed Famous Grouse whisky for six hours after losing a third friend to cancer, stating he was teetotal and had broken his sobriety due to grief.

During his trial, Slimani also mentioned being in debt and undergoing county court proceedings. He reported consuming whisky between 1am and 7am, followed by Nyquil at 5:30pm before being stopped at approximately 6:30pm. He has since stated he has maintained sobriety. The court also heard about his concerns regarding the press, reputation, and loss of work following the arrest.

District Judge Mark Jabbitt found the case proven, imposing a £600 fine, a £240 surcharge, and £620 in costs. Slimani was offered a drink drivers' rehabilitation scheme, which could reduce his disqualification period. The judge expressed sympathy for his bereavements but not for excessive drinking or driving under the influence of medication.