Who is telling the truth? Is this driver being targeted by an entire village, or is he the cause of concern for many residents? This is a case that the courts were due to rule on this Thursday, June 20, at the local court in Millau.
In the dock, a resident of Viala-du-Tarn, denounced by many residents for his driving which they consider dangerous and as presenting a danger, with the fear of an accident.
Numerous corroborating testimonies
Between November 13 and December 7, many residents of Viala-du-Tarn alerted the gendarmerie services after a vehicle was seen driving in front of the municipal school at a fast pace, and passing very close to certain people. Among the reports we find the school principal and several parents of students, each pointing the finger at the same vehicle.
Waited for by the police, the defendant admitted to being the driver of the incriminated vehicle, but maintained that he was driving at an appropriate speed. “That’s false, in 35 years of having a license I’ve never been stopped, supports the defendant. I never exceed the speed limit.”
The driver targeted by other residents?
Facing the judge, the man maintains his explanations and even questions himself. “I don’t understand, someone must blame me”he points out, explaining that he has since decided to come home later from work so that he no longer runs into residents leaving school.
For his part, the mayor of the town, present at the hearing, acknowledged having received numerous complaints from fellow citizens and having spoken with the accused to put an end to the situation. “This area is already limited to 30 km/h, we added educational radars, but it was clearly not enough so we ordered speed bumps, explains the mayor. But I must admit that since December 7, things have calmed down.”
For his part, the prosecutor points out that the mere fact of never having been arrested is not proof of innocence, while the testimonies overwhelm the defendant. Taking into account the return of calm, it requires “a sentence of appeasement”. A sentence adapted for the court which follows the prosecutor’s requisitions and sentences the driver to a fine of €1,500, fully suspended.
