North Shields binman in court accused of causing serious injury by careless driving in Northumberland
Steven Thompson was allegedly behind the wheel of a refuse collection vehicle when a collision happened at a BP garage in the Northumberland town
by Sara Nichol · ChronicleLiveA binman has appeared in court accused of causing serious injury by careless driving.
Steven Thompson was allegedly behind the wheel of a refuse collection vehicle when a collision happened at a BP garage, in Hexham, Northumberland. The 38-year-old was suspected of causing serious injury to a man by careless driving, a charge he denied when he appeared at Newcastle Magistrates' Court.
Ruth Forster, prosecuting, said the accident happened on October 20 2022 while Thompson was allegedly driving a "Mercedes refuse disposal vehicle". She said the case was suitable to be tried before magistrates.
District Judge Kate Meek agreed, adding: "My view is that this matter can be tried at a magistrates' court. If you were convicted, however, the court could still send you to the crown court for sentence."
Thompson, of Blandford Road, in North Shields, elected to have his case heard at the crown court. District Judge Meek said: "You will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court, having elected.
"The first hearing will take place on October 9 at 10am. You will be bailed to be there. That means you have a duty to be there. If you don't attend, a warrant could be issued for your arrest and an absconding charge could be laid against you.
"At that hearing, you will be asked to confirm your plea. Keep in touch with your solicitor."
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