Disqualified Wallsend driver caught behind the wheel just three weeks after ban

Josh Johnstone leaving Newcastle Crown Court and Magistrates' court, Newcastle Quayside
-Credit: (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)


A disqualified driver was caught behind the wheel just three weeks after being banned from the roads.

Josh Johnstone claimed he decided to drive as he was "late for an important family appointment" when he was stopped by police in his newly-bought Ford Focus. A court heard that checks were carried out and it was immediately clear that the 29-year-old was banned from driving and had no insurance.

Johnstone had been due before magistrates in Newcastle in October but failed to appear, claiming his mum opened his post and she hadn't opened the letter informing him of the court date. A warrant was issued for his arrest and he was detained this week, appearing in the dock in custody on Thursday.

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Johnstone, of Frank Street, in Wallsend, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and driving without insurance and his case was adjourned for the preparation of a pre-sentence report. Gurjot Kaur, prosecuting, said police spotted Johnstone in his Ford Focus on Durant Road, in Newcastle City Centre, on July 24 this year.

Ms Kaur continued: "The car initially showed a completely different registration plate. As a result, officers stopped the defendant. Checks on him said he was disqualified driver through totting, which was imposed on July 5."

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Magistrates heard that Johnstone, who owes more than £3,000 to the court, had 14 offences on his record and was last convicted in September last year for possession of an offensive weapon. Michael Gibson, defending, said Johnstone had decided to drive as he was "late for an important family meeting".

Mr Gibson added: "He suffers from anxiety and depression and lives alone. His mum visits him regularly and opens his post for him. He didn't receive the postal requisition for this case."

Johnstone was released on unconditional bail to next appear back at the same court for sentence on December 12.