Driver accused of stealing his OWN car from an MOT garage is ordered to pay up – or risk going to jail
A DRIVER accused of stealing his own car from a garage has been ordered to pay the bill – or stand trial in court for theft.
Ian Roberts, 64, put his car in for an MOT and was told repairs would need to be carried out after it failed.
Roberts then allegedly sneaked into the garage after it was closed and used a spare key to take his car home without paying the bill.
But the car was seized by police investigating the alleged theft – and is still locked up more than two years later.
Hannah George, defending, said he had taken the car away to complete the repairs himself before returning the vehicle to be retested.
Roberts was due to stand trial accused of theft for his actions.
But the court heard prosecutors were willing to drop the charges if he pays the invoice from December 2022.
Judge Paul Thomas KC asked why Roberts hadn’t already paid the invoice to the Goodwick Motor Services in Pembrokeshire.
Ms George said: “That is still a course of action he intends to take.
“The defendant’s instructions have always been that he was willing to pay that invoice.
“The concern he had was the implication of what would happen thereafter because the police have had possession of his vehicle for some two-and-a-half years.”
Judge Thomas ordered Roberts, of Fishguard, to pay the invoice within two weeks or stand trial at Swansea Crown Court.
Should the invoice not be paid and the case moves to Swansea Crown Court then Roberts faces a maximum sentence of seven years in prison and/or an unlimited fine, according to the CPS.
The news comes after England’s car theft hotspots revealed.
Data from the DVLA shows that thefts have soared, reaching an all-time high in 2023.
Fortunately, experts from CarMats were able to share some top tips for protecting your motor from crooks.
First of all, they urged Brits not to leave anything on display when they park up for even a short time.
Items like wallets, phones, sat navs and cash can all attract the attention of thieves.
Secondly, they recommended investing in extra security measures to deter attempts at pilfering your car.
Getting hold of a steering lock or visible alarm can be a great way to put criminals off, while CCTV cameras in your garage or driveway can provide vital evidence to cops if your car is pinched.
Finally, the experts revealed a handy gadget that can help combat “keyless” thefts.