MORE COURT
AFTER he allegedly fell asleep at the wheel, the car Joseph Godsall (27), unemployed, was driving on October 20, 2016, left Seven Mile Rd and rolled, the Oamaru District Court heard yesterday.
In the back of the car were two children wearing their seatbelts. Godsall, of Livingstone, was wearing his seatbelt, but his pregnant partner in the front passenger seat was not.
Police prosecutor Tim Hambleton said the partner was injured and airlifted to hospital and the baby survived.
He said Godsall told police he believed he fell asleep.
The court heard his injuries from the crash left him reliant on a benefit.
He was convicted by Judge Joanna Maze of operating a motor vehicle carelessly, causing injury.
Judge Maze remitted $1250 of fines, but ordered him to pay reparation of $1841.84.
Godsall was disqualified from driving for six months.
Offensive texts
A Kurow man whose text message advances were rejected by a coworker has been ordered to pay the woman $250 for emotional harm and discharged without conviction.
The lawyer for David Samuel Sheppard (52), bar manager, argued in the Oamaru District Court yesterday that any conviction could create undue hardship.
When Sheppard’s hotel’s licence and management licence came up for review, a conviction might stand in his way; and if he lost his income at 52 he might struggle to find other secure employment, lawyer Wayne Todd said.
Sheppard was charged with disturbing use of a telephone.
The police summary of facts said the victim previously worked at the Kurow licensed premises he managed.
In December 2016 Sheppard displayed unwanted affection towards the victim that she considered inappropriate.
He began a telephone text conversation with the woman, trying to further their relationship.
In what appeared to be a jealous reaction to the victim associating with a male at Sheppard’s workplace, the text conversation deteriorated and he called her several names, using offensive language.
Sheppard told police the victim had used similar language, but he was unable to provide evidence.
Historic sex charges
A South Canterbury man has been charged with multiple historic sexual offences.
The man, whose identity is suppressed, is represented by Judith AblettKerr QC.
He is charged with six counts of indecent assault and one of sexual violation.
A case review is scheduled for July 5.
Other convictions
Bruce Wayne Crawford (56), of Hampden, assault, Hampden, between July 1 and August 31, 2016; assault, Hampden, between October 1 and October 31, 2016, contravenes protection order, two months’ community detention, curfew 7pm to 7am, nine months’ supervision on special conditions.
Nigel Robert Baird (34), courier, of Weston, drink driving (492mcg), Percy St, Oamaru, 10.50pm, April 1, fined $500, court costs $130, disqualified six months.