Suspended jail term for driver in fatal road accident

A driver who killed a 51-year-old man after he drove negligently and at speed was yesterday given a suspended jail term, fined and banned from driving for 10 months. Jonathan Mifsud, 32, who was 24-years-old at the time of the accident, ran over George...

A driver who killed a 51-year-old man after he drove negligently and at speed was yesterday given a suspended jail term, fined and banned from driving for 10 months.

Jonathan Mifsud, 32, who was 24-years-old at the time of the accident, ran over George Portelli at the former runway at Ħal Far in March 2001.

Mr Mifsud was driving a white sport Peugeot 205 model and Mr Portelli was crossing the road. On impact, the windscreen was smashed and the car roof damaged. Witnesses said the victim was tossed high in the air and landed a considerable distance away from the point of impact.

Six years ago, Mr Mifsud was charged with causing Mr Portelli's death as a result of dangerous driving and excessive speed. He admitted to the charges this February 1. After taking into consideration the fact that Mr Mifsud had a clean police record, Magistrate Saviour Demicoli handed down an 18-month jail term, suspended for three years. Mr Mifsud was also fined €4,700 and banned him from driving for 10 months.

Police Inspector Marie Stella Cutajar prosecuted.

Lawyer Simon Micallef Stafrace appeared for Mr Mifsud.

Lawyer Tonio Azzopardi appeared parte civile.

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