Drunk driver fined $10,000 for fatal accident

The driver allegedly involved in last week’s fatal accident in Penal has been fined $10,000 and disqualified from driving after appearing in court on a drunk driving charge.

Mervyn Joseph pleaded guilty on Tuesday to driving under the influence of alcohol, four days after the accident that claimed the life of Barrackpore labourer Habib John. Another person, Ann Marie Codrington-Mitchell, a pensioner, was also injured.

Police reports stated that a white Kia K2700 van struck the victims as they walked along Rochard Road around 7.10 pm on August 8.

John was escorting Codrington-Mitchell home after spending time near Platanite Trace when they were hit by the vehicle.

The 33-year-old driver reportedly failed the breathalyser test. Siparia Magistrate Alexander Prince gave Joseph three months to pay the fine or serve 24 months in prison. He was also disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver’s permit for three years.

The Magistrate ordered that his driver’s permit be returned to the Licensing Authority.

He was charged by Sgt Monsegue.

Meanwhile, an officer told Guardian Media that upon completion of further investigations, the file will be sent to the relevant officials, who will then determine whether Joseph will face charges relating to the fatal accident or an inquest. —Sascha Wilson