6 days ago
Mechanic was driving dangerously in Newport Instagram video
Harry Aufiero was filmed drifting around two people in a BMW along with another car at a car meet at Langland Park Industrial Estate in Newport on July 7 last year.
The number plates had been taken off both cars to hide the identities of the drivers, prosecutor Thomas Stanway told Newport Crown Court.
However, two days later a police officer came across the video on Instagram whilst he was off-duty – and he recognised the industrial estate in the background as police had been called to 'a large car meet' there.
The video had tagged in an account '@
The BMW's number plate was identified from other posts on the Instagram account, and checks then linked the vehicle to Aufiero.
Aufiero pleaded guilty to dangerous driving at a plea and trial preparation hearing.
The court heard that the 20-year-old, of Hyde Lane in Ecchinswell, Hampshire, had no previous convictions.
'He fully accepts responsibility for his driving,' said Alice Sykes, appearing for Aufiero.
'He was fully aware he was driving dangerously and fully aware his decision making could have resulted in serious injury to others.'
Ms Sykes said Aufiero was a qualified mechanic working in Hampshire, and his interim disqualification had impacted his work.
She added he was remorseful for his actions and had a realistic prospect of being rehabilitated.
'He is still only 20 years old,' she said.
'His immaturity clearly has a bearing on his decision making.'
'It clearly was a highly dangerous manoeuvre,' said Judge Celia Hughes.
'You could have caused injury or damage by driving so stupidly.
'I agree that posting that on Instagram was glamourising that behaviour.'
Aufiero was sentenced to a 12-month community order, as part of which he must complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days.
He was also banned from driving for 12 months, must complete an extended re-test to regain his licence, and was ordered to pay £1,000 in court costs.
