A Derrynoose man who gave his brother’s details when stopped by police was later found to be a provisional licence holder.
The 37-year-old’s legal representation stated the defendant had “panicked” as it was revealed he was insured and accompanied by a qualified driver.
Sean Anthony McBride, of Listrakelt Road, pleaded guilty to not displaying ‘L’ plates and obstructing police at the city’s Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
It was heard the defendant was stopped by police driving a Transit van on Crossmore Road, Keady, on May 26 at around 11.20am.
McBride then gave officers his brothers details, who owned the vehicle, as his own but was unable to provide documentation.
However, whilst in custody, the defendant confessed to giving false information to police and admitted to being a provisional licence holder.
Defence counsel said this was McBride’s first driving offence and that the defendant had simply “panicked” when stopped by police.
Court learned that McBride was insured to drive the van and was also accompanied by a qualified driver.
District Judge Paul Copeland stated: “This isn’t a great start to your driving career but this time I am not going to disqualify you”.
McBride was handed three penalty points and ordered to pay a fine of £200, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within eight weeks.
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