A probationary driver who was caught with methamphetamine in his system and later refused drug tests has been taken off the road for four years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 21-year-old pleaded guilty in the Bendigo Magistrates' Court to failing an oral fluid test within three hours of driving, speeding, two counts of refusing to accompany police for an oral fluid test, two counts of failing to display P-plates, failing to carry his probationary licence, and criminal damage.
The court heard that the motorist was caught travelling at 112km/h in a 100km/h zone in Lara in May 2018.
He was not carrying his probationary licence, had no P-plates on the car and tested positive to methamphetamine.
Almost four months later he was again caught driving with no P-plates.
More court news: Son choked, beat mother to unconsciousness
After a preliminary drug test he was asked to accompany police for a further test, but refused.
In June last year, the man was pulled over at Big Hill when police saw him turn off the Calder Highway before he reached a booze bus.
He again refused to accompany police for an evidentiary drug test after a preliminary test.
The court heard the man received a penalty notice for drug-driving in 2017.
The man told the court he had not touched methamphetamine since the most recent incident and had an appointment to get a mental health plan.
More court news: Man stabbed Pokemon Go-playing stranger after asking for cigarette
He said he was experiencing a "dark time" in his life during the period of offending, but was doing better and was looking for work.
Magistrate Megan Aumair cancelled the man's licence and disqualified him from driving for four years.
Ms Aumair put the man on a 12-month good behaviour bond, with conditions he pay $1000 to the court fund, participate in a road trauma awareness seminar, undertake a driver behaviour change program, and be assessed for a mental health plan.
He was not convicted.
Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
