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Fine, lost licence after guilty plea

A 22-year-old Erskine colony man is facing a hefty fine and has lost his licence for a year after being found in the care and control...
70672stettlercourt
Provincial Court

A 22-year-old Erskine colony man is facing a hefty fine and has lost his licence for a year after being found in the care and control of a vehicle while impaired.

RCMP responded to calls about a vehicle stopped in the middle of the intersection of highways 835 and 601 just before 3 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 5. When police arrived, they found Levi Hofer slumped over the wheel of the vehicle.

As police roused him, they detected a strong odour of alcohol, and noticed Hofer's red eyes and slurred speech. Furthermore, an open can of beer was visible in the console of his vehicle.

Hofer was cooperative with police and was taken back to the station, where he provided breath samples. The samples showed he was impaired.

Hofer pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity and has no previous record, the court was told, and furthermore has the support of his family and community.

"They hope that he'll learn from his mistakes," his counsel said. "And I believe he has, as he's shown remorse for his actions."

As this was Hofer's first offence, the Crown requested the minimum sentence, which was a $1,000 fine plus surcharge, and a one-year driving prohibition.

Judge J.A. Hunter agreed, but further ordered that Hofer would be eligible for the interloc device program after three months.

"Don't drive without your licence," he cautioned Hofer. "If you are caught driving without it, you may go to jail."

Hofer was further given until the end of February 2017 to pay the fine.

Warrants issuedThe court ordered several warrants for individuals who did not attend court as ordered to do so. One person who avoided getting a warrant was Skye Sweeting, who sent a friend to speak in her place as she was required to be at work.

Noelle Pedersen spoke on Sweeting's behalf, but instead of moving forward, the judge issued another notice to appear, noting that the documents clearly show Sweeting was advised she had to be present at court.

"She must be here," Hunter said. "She cannot send an agent."

If Sweeting does not appear at the appointed date, a warrant will be issued for her arrest.