Prison for barman after drunk died

A BARMAN has been sentenced to two years in prison after a customer died from drinking too much alcohol.

Laurent Decarnin, 35, was found dead at his home after drinking huge amounts of alcohol as part of a bet with 28-year-old Julien Verhaegen, who ran La Sentinelle bar near Valenciennes in the Nord.

It is the first time in France someone has been sent to prison in such circumstances.

The incident happened on November 6 last year when Mr Decarnin went to the bar with two friends where they each had three beers. Mr Decarnin boasted to Mr Verhaegen that he “could drink anything” and a series of challenges began.

Following the beers, Mr Verhaegen served three 25cl shots of vodka, calvados and gin one after the other, downed by Mr Decarnin in the space of ten minutes. He also drank more gin and the dregs of a beer barrel.

Speaking before the court Mr Verhaegen said: “It’s so bitter, I didn’t think anyone would drink it.”

Mr Decarnin was taken home by his friends and found dead the following morning. He was 10 times over the legal driving limit.

The public prosector said Mr Decarnin “did not die by accident, but by provocation, thoughtlessness and a complete disregard for human life.”

Mr Verhaegen was sentenced to two years in prison for manslaughter, one which must be served. He was also barred from working in the profession – he had already decided to quit following the incident.

Mr Decarnin’s two friends who were with him that night were given a suspended sentence of 12 to 18 months for not helping a person in danger.