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An Ipswich man banned from driving until 2027 has had his disqualification extended by more than four years after being caught behind the wheel again. Thomas Gillingham, 20, was given a suspended prison sentence at Ipswich Magistrates Court.
Why it matters: Driving while disqualified puts other road users at risk and shows contempt for court orders designed to keep dangerous drivers off the roads.
The details: Gillingham, of Coleridge Road in Ipswich, was spotted driving a BMW while banned on Cumberland Street in Woodbridge at 20:30 on Tuesday 24 September.
He received a 22-week jail sentence, suspended for 24 months.
His driving ban has been extended by 54 months.
He had been disqualified until April 2027 under a previous ban imposed in April 2024.
What they're saying: PC Tom Ives from Roads Policing said: "This conviction lets people know that driving whilst disqualified is not a matter which is taken lightly, particularly for repeat offenders like Gillingham."
He added: "People are disqualified from driving as their manner of, or ability to drive, does not meet the required standards and therefore they should not be allowed on the road – as such those who chose to drive whilst disqualified, pose a risk to other road users."
The bottom line: Suffolk Police say they are continuing efforts to ensure disqualified drivers are kept off the county's roads.
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