Jesse Paul: Mildura driver who put other road users at risk struck by car

A Mildura man with a history of failing or refusing drug tests had his life brought to an “abrupt halt” when he was hit by an out-of-control car.

A Mildura motorist repeatedly refused to take drug tests after being pulled over, a court has heard.

A Mildura man with a history of failing or refusing drug tests has now felt the impact that a road accident can have.

Jesse Paul, 29, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including driving while disqualified and recklessly causing injury, at Mildura Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

Police told the court on October 2 last year, Paul was stopped in a Mitsubishi ute on Etiwanda Ave, where he failed to produce a licence.

After a preliminary oral fluid test, Paul refused to accompany police for further testing.

In March this year, Paul again refused when asked by police to undergo a drug test after being stopped at Hugh King Drive.

He had been disqualified from driving since the previous October and had his vehicle impounded.

In May, Paul was riding a motorcycle when he was once more stopped on Etiwanda Ave, refusing a request to accompany police to the Mildura station.

He was also found to be using an unregistered vehicle which had number plates belonging to another vehicle.

On November 25, Paul was in an argument with his father, who had asked him to leave.

Paul then pushed his father in the back, causing him to fall and hit his head, which knocked him unconscious and stopped his breathing.

Neighbours assisted and the father began breathing again.

Paul entered the courtroom with his arm in a sling and wearing a back brace.

The court heard that on November 10, Paul was push-starting his motorcycle when he was struck by an out-of-control vehicle.

Paul’s lawyer said this accident had brought Paul’s lifestyle to an “abrupt halt”.

The lawyer said Paul was deeply remorseful about the incident with his father, had moved out of the house and was making attempts to end his drug use.

Magistrate Michael Coghlan said Paul had a history of failing or refusing testing by police while on the roads before the most recent matters.

Paul was also said to be up to his eighth driving while disqualified charge.

Mr Coghlan said Paul was putting other road users at risk and had gone beyond fines and community corrections orders.

“The buck stops here today,” Mr Coghlan said.

Paul’s recent injuries were taken into account, but Mr Coghlan noted they didn’t stop him from days later pushing his father with enough force to leave him unconscious.

Paul was sentenced to a total of six months in jail for driving while disqualified and recklessly causing injury.

He received several fines totalling $2850, covering his refusals to accompany police and unregistered driving.

He will be disqualified from driving for five years.

Mr Coghlan said parliament should consider introducing immediate prison terms for drivers who refuse oral fluid tests.