Former South Australian Justin Westerman has self-represented at Darwin local court this morning on a minor speeding charge and driving while unlicensed.
Appearing before Judge Fong-Lim, maroon Lexus was caught doing 81km/hr in a 60 zone on the Stuart Highway, Stuart Park in May.
Judge Fong-Lim said: "Mr Westerman, you don't have a good history in relation to driving.
"I need to hear from you as to why you were driving at the time. Whose car it was, and what your personal situation is in relation to work etc.
Westerman: "It's.."
Judge: "You'll stand up when you're talking to me."
Westerman: "It's my car your honour."
Judge: "Well why don't you have a driver's license?"
Westerman: "At the time I was picking up [name] at Stuart Park and taking her to hospital. She was having [medical situation description]."
Judge: "Mr Westerman. You have never held a license. Why do you think you can drive on our roads?"
Westerman: [inaudible].
Judge: "Are you going to sell it?"
Westerman: "I am still paying it off your honour, but yes, eventually I will."
Westerman confirmed with the judge his employment as a storeman wouldn't be affected by a disqualification.
Judge: "You've been driving without a license for a very long time. You've been told by this court many times, not to drive, yet you continue to drive."
In delivering her decision the judge said: "Mr Westerman. You don't have a license, you shouldn't have a car, you shouldn't be driving.
"You're not safe to drive on the roads. Clearly you were speeding.
"We have fatalities on our roads sitting at about 28. Speed and alcohol are one of the main factors for people dying on our roads.
"You don't even have a license, and it's not the first time.
"You'll be convicted and fined $1,000. Victims levy of $300 and [inaudible] disqualification.
"If you are found to be driving at all, you will face a term of imprisonment."
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