Latvian driver learns 'expensive lesson'
Published Date:
30 May 2008
By Staff reporter
A Latvian man, who had no driving licence but bought a car to do it up and sell on, but crashed it into a wall in Limavady after a day's drinking, was fined £500 and disqualified from driving for 12 months.
Ronalds Rengarts, of Castle Gardens in Limavady was observed driving slowly on Edenmore Road in the town on May 5, swerving across the road, with no lights.
The court heard how the 19-year old's Skoda car made contact with a grassy embankment and then hit a wall. When police made contact with Rengarts they detected a strong smell of alcohol.
When taken into custody Rengarts refused to provide a specimen. He had no driver's licence and no insurance. He later admitted during interview that he had been driving and he did hit the wall.
Defence solicitor, David Brewster said Rengarts, who had come to Northern Ireland 15 months ago, had been out with friends that day at Benone beach drinking, which had continued at home.
"The evening was a blur to him," he said, adding, "He has learned an expensive lesson."
RM., Eamon King said, "You must be aware that in this country, society does not tolerate people driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and the courts do take it seriously."
Rengarts was also ordered to pay £350 compensation regarding he wall.
The full article contains 231 words and appears in Journal Friday DER Edition newspaper.
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Last Updated:
30 May 2008 9:38 AM
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Source:
Journal Friday DER Edition
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Location:
Derry