Carer faces court on drug driving charge

A 55-year-old carer faced Grafton Court for driving under the influence of methamphetamine. See how the court dealt with the matter.

A 55 year-old Pillar Valley carer has escaped conviction for driving while under the influence of methamphetamine.

A conviction would have made life difficult for Wanda Avery who visits her elderly father daily on a two hour round car trip and is also a carer for her 19-year-old autistic son.

Her defense lawyer Mr Hatch, highlighted her five-year commitment to sobriety and her completion of the pre-plea programme ‘Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment’ (MERIT).

Magistrate Kathy Crittenden also praised the defendant’s ability to complete the course which is aimed at reducing court offences with drug and alcohol saying it is not an easy course to complete.

Pillar Valley resident Ms Wanda Avery waits for her time in Grafton Court.

“What is particularly impressive is, notwithstanding your lapses, the report says you have been honest about them,” said Magistrate Crittenden.

She reminded Ms Avery that the law exists to keep people safe.

“You would be aware, no doubt having gone through this process, the horror story of someone affected by drugs killing someone.”

Ms Avery pleaded guilty for driving a motor vehicle on August 4, 2021 with an illicit drug present in her blood.

She was found guilty at Grafton Criminal Court on January 10, 2022, without proceeding to conviction.

She was directed to enter a Conditional Release Order for nine months.