Police do not like a motor put on a bike

Richard Jones, 54, was riding his bike along Reid Street about 5pm on December 28 when he was stopped by State Highway Patrol police – they had an issue with the motor.

He was charged with unlicensed driving and appeared in Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

Police prosecutor Penny Lawler said officers found the motor fit the description of a vehicle, which required licence and registration.

“The accused was using the electric motor as the primary source of power for a kilometre, rather than peddling,” she said.

Jones told the court he felt targeted by a police “taskforce” and had been riding the bike, which he said used only 200 watts of power, since losing his licence for drink-driving.

He claimed he had the motor going for 100 metres, not one kilometre, and still used the peddles as his primary source of power.

“They’re trying to embellish the evidence there,” Jones said.

“I’ve continued to ride this bicycle around town for the past six months.

“It’s made a mockery of the circumstances.”

He offered to prove he could ride at 20km/h without a motor.

Notes from the acting inspector and sergeant were requested as evidence for the defence, as well as the Wangaratta Highway Patrol sergeant as a witness to provide an opinion on the use of electric bicycles.

Magistrate Ian Watkins questioned if the sergeant’s opinion would be admissible in court.

“It is unless you want to look after the taskforce,” Jones said.

“If that comment is directed at me, I find that very offensive,” Mr Watkins said.

Jones then requested a different magistrate when the case returned to court for hearing.

He continued his aggression as he left the courtroom, directing comments towards Sergeant Tim Hart who was seated near the door.

“Have you got a problem? Don’t stare at me pal,” Jones said.

The case for adjourned for a hearing in October.