Horsham man fined $250 without conviction for interlock offence

Horsham's Darren Klinge, 39, pleaded guilty to failing to comply with the mandated use of an alcohol interlock system in the Horsham Magistrate's Court on Monday, October 25.

He was fined $250 without conviction.

The court heard Mr Klinge was observed driving erratically by the Horsham Highway Patrol on Saturday, February 13, 2020, at around about 9.30pm.

Before he pulled into the Coles supermarket carpark, Mr Klinge was driving south along Roberts Avenue, Horsham.

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Police intercepted Mr Klinge for a routine check; he produced a current Victorian probationary driver's licence.

Police observed an interlock condition listed on Mr Klinge's driver's licence, but no interlock fitted to the vehicle.

The interlock condition began on July 4, 2017, and had no expiry date.

Mr Klinge told police members he was running late for work and drove without the interlock system fitted.

Defence lawyer Phil Simpson said his client's record was not a great driving history.

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"He obviously shouldn't have been driving and the situation is this your honour," Mr Simpson said.

"After his 2017 loss of licence, there was an interlock fitted until such time there was a speeding offence in 2018.

"It was refitted on February 25 this year, so for what should have been a six-month interlock, he has currently had it on to date for sixteen months.

"He accepts responsibility for the situation and his decision-making at the time."

Magistrate Tim Walsh handed down a $250 fine without conviction.

"You need to obey these things," Magistrate Walsh said in handing down his decision.

"Given the circumstances and situation and the fact you have pleaded guilty, I will be taking all of those factors into account."

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