Illegal driver from South Shields caught by police in van with false number plates

A South Tyneside man who bought a van to renovate but then drove it with false number plates has been fined and given penalty points.
The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.
The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.

Ian Finlay, 57, of Whitehall Street, South Shields, was caught when a sharp-eyed policeman’s suspicions were raised, South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard.

Unemployed Finley was also found to be driving without a licence, insurance or MOT certificate when pulled over in Vigo Lane, Washington, on November 26.

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Prosecutor Eve McDonnell told the court that shortly before 6pm, a police officer was on duty and his attention was drawn to a Ford Transit vehicle.

She added: “He had cause to stop and speak to the driver.

“The defendant told the officer that he didn’t have a valid driving document and was displaying false plates. He was interviewed and full admissions made.”

Charlie Weidner, defending, said: “He’s pleaded guilty to all matters.

“He purchased the vehicle with the view to doing it up. It was in a compound and it would appear that someone put false plates on to it.

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“He has no points on his licence. There’s nothing aggravating about his driving.”

Finlay pleaded guilty to fraudulently using a registration mark or registration document, driving without insurance, driving without a licence, and having no MOT test certificate.

Magistrates fined him £120 on the fraud charge and he must pay £85 court costs and a £32 victim surcharge.

He was also given eight penalty points for driving without insurance, and there was no penalty for the other charges.