WHP man fined for illegal use of department’s vehicle

A man from the Western Highlands Province has been fined K10,000 by the Waigani National Court for illegally using a vehicle during the 2012 General Elections.

Thomas Jimm Norrie was sentenced to two years in prison today however, the court fully suspended that sentence period, ordering him to pay K10,000 within six months.

He was convicted for stealing a Toyota Land Cruiser in 2011 while he was employed with the Department of Commerce and Industry.

Norrie used the Department’s money and purchased the vehicle, shipping it to Mt Hagen where he used it for a hire-car business.

The court was told Norrie used the vehicle from May 2011 through to the election period for election purposes at K300 per day.

The vehicle was later returned in good condition to the department after Norrie was caught and arrested for its illegal use.

He is expected back in court in March 6, 2017, to give an update of his payment.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton