A POWYS man disqualified from driving a year ago after being caught drink driving, continued to get behind the wheel because he feared losing his job.
George Fitzgerald, from Presteigne, appeared at Llandrindod Wells Magistrates’ Court this week, where he entered a guilty plea to driving while disqualified.
The 28-year-old was banned from the roads for 20 months in May 2023 after being convicted of drink driving.
But the defendant, who was a window fitter at the time, was so concerned that the conviction would lead to him losing his job, that he simply continued to drive his van to and from work.
Fitzgerald was spoken to outside his Maes Corton home on November 30 last year by police officers who knew he was banned.
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“It was around 6.05pm when PC Scott was mobile patrol and observed a white Ford Transit van being driven on an estate in Presteigne,” said prosecutor James Sprunks at court on Wednesday, June 19.
“He saw it park up outside an address and spoke to the driver of the vehicle. The defendant is known to the officer from previous dealings. It was discovered he was disqualified after a May 2023 drink driving offence.”
Owain Jones, representing father-of-one Fitzgerald, said his client was remorseful.
“He was cooperative with the police,” said Mr Jones.
“He was under pressure with money and work and deciding what was best to do. He has new work now where he can get a lift to where he needs to go.”
Probation officer Donna Davies said: “Mr Fitzgerald was employed as a window fitter, which involved regular travel.
“He realised he would lose his employment as a result of a disqualification, so he did not disclose this to his employer.
“He was also worried he would lose his home if he lost his employment. He has a rent to own home and says he never thought he’d own his own home.
“He sought alternative employment but continued to drive knowing he was banned.
“In interview he was tearful and admitted he was glad he was caught. It is disappointing and concerning he’s back here."
Magistrates told Fitzgerald to adhere to a 12-month community order, which will include 60 hours of unpaid work.
He was banned for 16 months and must pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.
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