he was fined $1,150 in Magistrates' Court.

And more than $500 of that fine will go to paying for repairs to the cycle which Rogers damaged during the theft.

The 24-year-old, of Sinky Bay Road, Southampton was charged with stealing a Honda Scoopy, valued at $1,000, driving while disqualified and driving without third party insurance.

Prosecutor Sgt. Wilbert McLean said the cycle was left on South Shore Road by its owner Francis Martin around 4 p.m. on Friday, October 1.

Sgt. McLean said: "It had broken down and he intended to pick it up later and to secure it.'' At approximately 3 a.m. the following day Police officers in the area saw the cycle travelling towards them ridden by the defendant.

Sgt. McLean said: "The officers noticed that the rider was struggling to control the cycle as the rear tyre was flat.

"As soon as he had passed the Police car he left the cycle and ran into a nearby hedge, pursued by the officers. He ran across a ploughed field and was finally caught near to the road.'' On his arrest Rogers said: "I was just trying to get home. I should have walked.'' When his cycle was returned, the owner found damage to the front forks, the ignition system and in other areas, totalling more than $500.

Magistrate the Wor. John Judge said: "This started off as a taking-and-driving-away. The cycle was not fit to be ridden and suffered further damage.'' Rogers said he had offered to repair the bike for its owner but he had refused to allow him.

Mr. Judge replied: "I think the owner probably thought he preferred the services of somebody else.'' He fined Rogers a total of $1,150. He was disqualified for six months, starting yesterday.

Mr. Judge said: "Next time you want a ride home, thumb a lift rather than taking a cycle. It's a lot cheaper.''