A Lancashire man caught drug driving told magistrates he got behind the wheel to avoid gangs in the local area.
Magistrates in Bolton heard that police were carrying out checks in the Lea Gate Close when they stopped the 20-year-old on July 10, 2020.
He admitted that he was driving without licence or insurance and that the vehicle had false number plates.
Prosecuting, Leigh Mogan said: “Police could smell cannabis and he admitted that he had been using it.”
Defending, Tracy Haslam, described her client as a “vulnerable individual” suffering anxiety and depression who had been targeted by a gang in the area and previously been beaten up.
“He purchased the vehicle for two reasons, firstly to sell on and make a profit but secondly, to give him some independence,” said Ms Haslam.
“He has been feeling trapped in his home and he purchased the vehicle to give him some independence in order to leave the house.
“He didn’t feel like he could walk the streets.”
She went on to say that he had been using cannabis to self-medicate and help him relax. He had used it the evening before he drove the car.
After pleading guilty to drug driving and driving without licence or insurance, magistrates banned him from driving for 18 months, imposed a fine of £200, and ordered him to pay £119 in costs and charges.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
