Defence lawyer Charles Richardson has denied charges of careless driving and refusing to provide police officers with a breath sample.

Mr Richardson told Magistrates’ Court yesterday he was being “harassed because of who I am” as he pleaded not guilty to two counts in relation to a traffic stop last year.

The 46-year-old is accused of driving a car without due care and attention on North Shore Road in Pembroke on November 26, 2016.

He is also alleged to have failed to provide a sample of breath for testing.

Mr Richardson, who represented himself in court, said that there were no grounds to the charges.

He added: “Based on my understanding, there is no basis for the charge in count one or count two.

“I will be seeking costs.

“I believe I am being harassed because of who I am, and I want to put that out there square.”

Magistrate Khamisi Tokunbo replied: “Your marker is down.”

Mr Richardson said: “It would not be the first time they have done this, but I guess they have got to keep trying.”

He was released on bail pending a further court appearance next month.

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