Recidivist offender given last chance

A MAN caught drug driving for the third time has been refused a fine and ordered to undergo random urine tests as part of a probation sentence.

Police patrols on Wyalla St, Newtown, on February 2 intercepted Anthony Weber about 5.25pm for a roadside drug test.

Weber, who held a probationary licence at the time, tested positive for illicit substances which analysis revealed to be methamphetamine and cannabis.

Representing himself in court, Weber accepted the facts and told Magistrate Catherine Pirie he was “guilty as charged” for the offence.

He had taken the drugs at a party the weekend before and it was still in his system, he said.

When considering sentencing, Ms Pirie told Weber that at 39 years of age, he “should be beyond this sort of thing and risk taking”.

The matter was stood down to allow a probation assessment after Weber told the court he would keep his job as a roofer despite losing his licence.

Ms Pirie noted Weber had been fined $250 and $400 for previously for similar offences, and told him there would “be no more fines”.

Weber had his license disqualified for seven months and sentenced to six months probation with conditions he submit to random urine tests, all of which must be clean.

He must also undergo therapy to address his illicit drug use, Ms Pirie ordered.