Motorist admits reckless driving after speeding away from police roadblock
Court denies request for bail
A 22-year-old Qormi motorist who allegedly sped off at a police roadblock despite orders to stop, has been remanded in custody.
Ransdon Debono pleaded guilty to reckless, negligent, and dangerous driving without a licence or valid insurance cover when he was arraigned on Monday.
Police inspector Clive Abela told the court that the police were carrying out a road check in Triq Kordin in Paola when they noticed a vehicle which did not stop when they signalled the driver. The police chased the car but had to call off the chase due to the danger to other motorists. The car was found some time later abandoned on a double yellow line and was subsequently towed away.
Initial investigations showed the vehicle was registered on a third party, who subsequently told police that he had sold the car to Debono but the transfer of the vehicle was not yet made despite several reminders.
Debono was arrested when he went to sign his bail book at Qormi police station. In court, he pleaded guilty to disobeying legitimate police orders, breaching traffic regulations and breaching two sets of bail conditions.
Defence lawyer Adreana Zammit requested a pre-sentencing report, which was upheld by the court.
The lawyer also requested bail, which was rejected on the grounds that the accused may commit similar crimes if granted bail. He was remanded in custody pending sentencing.
Magistrate Caroline Farrugia Frendo presided. Police inspector Clive Abela prosecuted. Lawyer Adreana Zammit appeared for the accused.