Quad bike driver imprisoned

Charles Gouder, 41, of Zabbar, was imprisoned for two years and nine months after admitting to charges of injuring two police officers, various cases of theft and relapsing.

The accused, who has a serious drug problem, was arrested on 3 June after mobile squad officers forced his quad bike onto the pavement.

Moments prior, PC Colin Spiteri was patrolling the area of Tal-Barrani Road, Ghaxaq, and signalled for Gouder to pull over. The accused sped up and swerved into Spiteri's police bike, causing him to crash. 

The police also arrested Gouder's wife, who was a passenger on the quad bike.

The accused admitted to stealing a Polaris quad bike from the street adjacent to the Addolorata Cemetery on 31 May. He also stole a set of number plates on 1 June, which he used on the quad bike. Prior to driving the stolen quad bike, Gouder erased its chassis and engine number.

Magistrate Ian Farrugia sentenced the accused to two years and nine months imprisonment. The court also made effective a previously suspended three-month prison term.

Magistrate Farrugia advised the prison director to enter Gouder into a rehabilitation programme to address his drug addiction.

Joseph Ellis appeared for the accused. Inspectors Joseph and Arthur Mercieca prosecuted.