A BANNED Kendal driver has been sentenced by a judge for failing to disclose motoring convictions while making an online application for insurance.
Carlisle Crown Court heard today (MON) how 28-year-old Adam Christian Butterfield’s offending came to light last October when he was arrested in relation to other matters.
It transpired that Butterfield, of Sedbergh Drive, failed to disclose previous convictions and a driving ban when making an online application for insurance to Admiral. Sarah Wait, prosecuting, stated of Butterfield’s response to his wrongdoing: “He said he didn’t know it was an offence not to do so.”
However, Butterfield admitted one charge of making a false statement to obtain insurance and, the court heard, had a host of previous convictions for motoring misdemeanours. He was made subject to a one-year community order comprising 80 hours’ unpaid work, and ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge.
Recorder Nicholas Clarke QC learned Butterfield’s previously imposed driving ban had since expired. “It does, however, mean you have this additional conviction. Before you can drive lawfully and obtain insurance you must bear in mind you will have to declare all your convictions,” said the judge.
“That will obviously severely prejudice your ability to get insurance. It may mean you cannot legitimately – that is lawfully – drive for the foreseeable future.”
“You have been dealt with very leniently today. Be very cautious about how you approach your future. Next time you may find yourself going immediately to custody.”
