A Craigavon man who was caught speeding at 109mph on the motorway whilst displaying ‘R’ plates has been handed a six-month disqualification.
Court heard that the 24-year-old had been running late to pick up his sister from Dungannon when he was detected.
Christopher Michael Kennedy, of Drumbeg, pleaded guilty to being a restricted driver exceeding the 45mph limit at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Court heard that on January 5, at 12.34pm, the defendant was detected by police driving a BMW in the M1, westbound, at 109mh.
Kennedy carried on at this speed for 0.69 miles before he was stopped by police.
It was noted by officers that the defendant’s car was displaying ‘R’ plates so a fixed penalty could not be offered.
Prosecution stated Kennedy exceeded his restricted speed by 64mph.
Defence solicitor Conor Moriarty stated: “Up until four years ago this was a young man who was always getting in trouble with the law.
“However, his last offence was in August 2014. A lot of his offences were due to alcohol and he has since stopped drinking.”
Court heard that on the day in question the defendant had been running late to pick up his sister in Dungannon.
Mr Moriarty commented: “This is a young, inexperienced driver and he accepts that the speed was far, far too much.
“I have advised him that accordingly he will certainly be disqualified.”
District Judge Bernie Kelly stated: “As you have already pointed out Mr Moriarty, this was an exceptionally high speed especially for a restricted driver.”
Kennedy was handed a six-month disqualification and ordered to pay a fine of £150, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within eight weeks.
