A Tandragee woman who drove her car after her partner jumped on the bonnet following an argument has been handed six penalty points.
The district judge commented that this was a “very unusual case” and given the “peculiar events” he was not prepared to disqualify the 33-year-old.
Kelly-Lee McLean, of Laurel Park, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
District Judge Peter Magill was shown a video of the incident by the prosecution.
He commented: “This shows her getting into an argument with her partner. He said that she had been drinking and was driving with their 10-year-old son in the car.
“He then gets on the bonnet and she drives a short distance.”
District Judge Magill stated: “Her case is that she was afraid and I tend to believe that as I heard the abuse which she received.”
Court heard that no statement was taken from McLean’s partner or the person who recorded the video.
The case was built solely on the admissions which the defendant made to the police, it was pointed out.
Defence barrister Conor Lunny stated: “She is a single mother, who was in an unhappy relationship which she was enduring.”
District Judge Magill said: “You have to understand that dangerous driving normally carries a disqualification of 12 months plus a fine or imprisonment.
“I am not going to send you to prison, you are a lady of otherwise clear character.”
He commented: “From what you told police, it would appear you were afraid and I can understand that.
“This is a very unusual case, because of the peculiar events I am not going to disqualify you.”
McLean was handed six penalty points and ordered to pay a fine of £250, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 20 weeks.
