Banned driver from Wisbech used false plates to dodge the police

A disqualified driver from Wisbech has admitted buying and driving a car after having false plates fitted to avoid detection.

James Howlett bought the Peugeot 206 during his ban, magistrates in King’s Lynn were told yesterday (Thursday 19). He was pulled over in Broadend Road on May 1 by police officers who believed the car was displaying plates stolen from a 207 model.

Prosecutor Robyn Khan said: “In interview, he said the plates had been put on the vehicle. His intention was to drive and not get caught.”

Howlett (24), of Mill Lane, had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to driving while disqualified, having no insurance and fraudulent use of a registration mark.

The court was told the conviction was a third breach of a conditional discharge imposed in March for theft.

In mitigation, Tiffany Meredith said: “He knew he was driving while disqualified and thereby had no insurance. He had purchased the car during his disqualification period and that’s why he got his friend to obtain the plates and put them on in order to avoid getting caught.

“He has learning difficulties. He tells me it manifests itself in processing information.”

The community order was revoked and Howlett was sentenced to eight weeks’ custody, suspended for 18 months, and 120 hours’ unpaid work. He had six points put on his licence and was ordered to pay £122 victim surcharge.