June 17, 2014
A Silverleaf man charged with driving under the influence of a drug lost his licence for a total of two and a half years when he appeared in Murgon Magistrates Court today – despite having minimal traffic history.
Clayton John Hinricks, 26, pleaded guilty to driving under the influence, driving while his licence was suspended and possessing dangerous drugs.
Police Prosecutor Sgt Wayne Bushell said when police saw Hinricks sitting in his car in Murgon they noted his eyes were dilated and his face looked flushed.
They conducted a random breath test, which Hinricks passed.
Police then asked Hinricks if he had taken any drugs, and he admitted using “ice” (methamphetamine) about four hours earlier.
A police search of his car located a clipseal bag on the rear passenger seat floor.
Police then gave Hinricks a notice of disqualification.
However, the next day police noticed his vehicle had been removed from where it had been parked.
They went to Silverleaf and Hinricks admitted he had returned and driven the vehicle home.
Acting Magistrate Graham Hillan fined Hinricks $700 and disqualified him for driving for six months for driving under the influence.
However, he said there was a minimum mandatory penalty he must impose for the driving while suspended charge.
On this count, Hinricks was fined $500 and disqualified for two years.
Hinricks was also fined $500 for possessing dangerous drugs. Convictions were recorded.
* * *
A woman facing a fraud charge laid after a police investigation at Wondai Kindergarten was granted another adjournment in Murgon Magistrates Court today.
Amanda Evans, also known as Amanda Magee, has been charged with dishonestly obtaining property.
Solicitors representing Evans wrote to the court requesting a three-week adjournment after receiving a police brief of evidence.
Acting Magistrate Hillan excused Evans’ appearance and adjourned the matter for mention to July 22.
