A DRIVER has avoided jail days before his 26th birthday after lying about being the owner of a car which had three driving tickets.

Almost two years ago to the day, Mohammed Luqman lied about being the owner of a car which had three fixed penalty notices after being caught driving through a bus lane in Slough.

On December 14, 2021, the 25-year-old filled out an MG11 police evidential form denying being the owner of the vehicle.

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The court heard that he had suggested the vehicle made have something to do with his father.

He was later charged with committing an act/series an acts with intent to pervert the course of justice which he pleaded guilty to at the lower court on July 4 this year.

Luqman attended Reading Crown Court on Thursday (December 7) prepped for a custodial sentence days before his 26th birthday on December 27 this year.

However, Judge Neil Millard handed the driver a suspended sentence, stating that though the case was serious, he is not a danger to the public.

The court heart that Luqman, of Northumbria Road, Maidenhead, had no previous offences at the time of the incident.

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However, he is awaiting sentencing for a conviction of criminal damage which took place last month.

His defence barrister added that the driver has suffered from mental health issues in the past.

“There is something in him which is not right,” he said. “But there is something in him that is trying to do better for the future.”

Sentencing, Judge Millard said: “This is a very serious offence. It goes to the very heart of the ministration of justice. We take this very seriously.

“Whilst the offending goes to the very heart of the ministration of justice, you not a risk to the public.

“In view of your good character at the time of this offence, you mental health issues, my view is that the punishment does not need to be a custodial sentence.

“I’m also concerned about you wellbeing in a custodial environment.”

Luqman was handed a six month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to complete 30 rehabilitation activity days and 150 hours of unpaid work.

There was no order for court costs or a victim surcharge as the court heard that the young man is £50,000 in debt.

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Leaving the court, Luqman could be heard enthusiastically thanking his barrister.

It is unknown when he will be back in court for the criminal damage offence.