The Proserpine Court House.
The Proserpine Court House. Peter Carruthers

Man travels overseas for case

SAM Harold Keith Ward concluded his almost year- long court case in Proserpine Magistrates Court on Monday.

The New Zealand man, representing himself, was facing court on five charges including driving under the influence, contravening a police direction, obstructing police, driving without a licence and failing to appear in court.

After originally wanting to contest the charges, a lengthy court discussion resulted in him pleading guilty to all charges.

Police prosecutor Matt Saunders said the incident happened about 12.30am on February 14 after police stopped a vehicle in Proserpine for an RBT.

Sgt Saunders said Ward appeared grossly intoxicated and returned a positive roadside test.

After being taken to the police station he became aggressive towards police, saying to one of them: "Why don't you take off your belt and have a go?"

Then, when trying to breath test him for a second time, he refused to provide his full name and continued to answer their questions by saying "f*** off". He refused to be breath tested and was charged with driving under the influence.

Magistrate Simon Young said it was a unique case as the man had been without a licence since the incident and had been travelling between New Zealand and Australia for court.

"...you've had some significant financial hardship by having these matters contested in courts," he said.

He was fined $1200 and disqualified from driving for six months. No criminal convictions were recorded.


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