A MOUNT Gambier man who drove disqualified to the doctor because he had a “sore knee” has been sentenced to imprisonment.
Dayne Matthew Davis, 34, appeared via video-link in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court to be sentenced for driving disqualified.
The prosecution said the offending occurred at 11.30am on October 26.
Police recognised Davis as the driver of a vehicle and stopped him.
He told officers he was driving to the doctor because he had a sore knee.
He admitted being aware he was disqualified from driving.
The defendant’s lawyer said Davis was at a time in his life where he should go and get a fresh start.
“He has a job waiting for him in Western Australia on a fruit farm when he is released from prison,” the defendant’s lawyer said.
“He has had a chance to detox while in prison.
Magistrate Teresa Anderson said the offending was serious because Davis had appeared in court 10 days earlier and been told he was not allowed to drive.
The defendant’s lawyer requested Magistrate Anderson to show some leniency by partially suspending any prison term to be imposed.
Davis was sentenced to two months and three days imprisonment and refused to partially suspend the sentence.
“His ability to comply with suspended sentences in the past has not gone well,” Magistrate Anderson said.
“The safety of the community requires him to serve the time in custody.”
The sentence was backdated to start on January 11.
