A Carlisle man was caught by police as he took and drove a car with the owner’s permission.
Justice Ewusie, 20, found himself in a court dock for the very first time following an incident on January 14 close to London Road in the city.
Two police officers on patrol had their attention drawn to a man.
“They described him as acting suspiciously around a vehicle,” prosecutor George Shelley told Carlisle magistrates. “They turned their vehicle around for better observations.
“They saw the vehicle drive off to the junction of Garden Street.”
Intelligence showed the car, a Vauxhall, was insured for a different man.
“The vehicle was instructed to stop. Ewusie provided his correct details. He stated that the vehicle belonged to a friend who had insurance.
“He was unable to provide basic details of the friend, such as his surname or address,” said Mr Shelley.
The vehicle’s keeper was spoken to by police. “He confirmed he was unaware his vehicle was missing, and that no other person had permission to drive his vehicle,” added the prosecutor.
Ewusie, who provided a no-comment police interview, admitted charges of taking a vehicle without consent and also no insurance when he appeared in court.
Defence solicitor Kate Hunter, mitigating, said of Ewusie: “He is not so forthcoming in detail (about the offence). I am sure at the age of 20 there is naivety.
“People he is mixing with, situations he is getting himself into, this is perhaps a wake-up call.”
Ewusie had just secured work as a warehouse operative, the court heard.
Magistrates imposed a £400 fine. Ewusie, of Watermans Walk, Carlisle, must also pay £85 costs and a £160 surcharge.
