James Saliba pleaded guilty to driving related charges at the Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court

An unemployed apprentice with a history of bad driving has been told “this is your last chance” by a magistrate after he was busted for reckless driving.

James Saliba pleaded guilty to driving related charges at the Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court. Photograph : Generic/ Jason O'Brien

An unemployed apprentice with a history of bad driving has been told “this is your last chance” by a magistrate after getting done for reckless driving.

James Saliba fronted the Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he pleaded guilty to failing to have proper control of the vehicle, driving the vehicle causing a loss of traction, driving the car making unnecessary smoke and using a vehicle not in a safe, roadworthy condition.

In May 2023, police were in Broadmeadows near Northcorp Boulevard about 8.40pm when they noticed Saliba’s blue Commodore travelling northbound, screeching its tyres.

After pulling over Saliba, 23, police found the car unsafe for the road and it was impounded.

Saliba’s defence lawyer said his client’s actions were an “act of stupidity” and he was a “youthful offender”.

“He was 22 years old when this happened. It’s been 12 months since, and there has been no subsequent offending,” he said.

The court heard Saliba was an apprentice but had been fired and was living off his savings.

“What he did was stupid, and he appreciates that...He has done a safe driving course...a loss of licence will affect his job prospects,” Saliba’s lawyer said,

Magistrate Adriano Serratore told Saliba he had “pretty serious” driving priors but was only giving him “an opportunity” because of his age.

“Having a licence is not a right; it is a privilege, and that can be taken from you for reckless driving,” he said.

Mr Serratore said he accepted Saliba was taking the matter seriously and said he “hoped” it would be reflected in his behaviour.

“This is your last chance,” he said.

Saliba was fined $550 without conviction.