Driver in court over 'runaway' electric car on Merseyside
On the fraud matters, it is alleged he made a false representation to CA Auto Finance that the Jaguar was faulty and was accelerating on its own with the brakes unresponsive.He is also accused of making the same claims to The Sun and Daily Mail newspapers, with the intention of causing loss to the Jaguar company or exposing it to risk of loss.
Motorway closures
Prosecutor Renee Southern told the court it was the Crown's case that the defendant had "persistently and dishonestly" claimed the vehicle was defective.She said Mr Owen wanted to "get rid" of the vehicle and thus avoid further payments to the finance company - which totalled £4,426.The court heard the car was stopped between Junction 11 for Birchwood and 12 for Eccles and the incident led to motorway closures and substantial delays.Mr Owen, of Prestatyn, was released on unconditional bail to attend a further hearing at Liverpool Crown Court on 10 September, when he is expected to enter formal pleas.
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