'Complete and utter idiot': Magistrate lambasts driver after burnout

The 19-year-old hoon appeared before Wagga Local Court on Monday after he pleaded guilty to a first offence of interfering with people's enjoyment or risking safety.

Weeks after it happened, police were tipped off that a driver had performed a burnout at the undercover car park on Morgan and Berry streets.

Officers were sent a video showing a driver not wearing a seatbelt next to a female passenger dated October 10, 2020.

In documents tendered to the court, it is stated that the video clearly shows the driver applying the brakes and letting the rear wheels lose traction while smoke billows as about 10 people watch on.

Police were able to identify the young man, and he told them during questioning he did it "after being egged on by his mates".

Magistrate Miranda Moody said the driver was a "complete and utter idiot" and he had behaved "like a total moron".

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She acknowledged that he did not have a criminal history, but said he had a prior speeding offence.

Magistrate Moody also noted he was selling the car and that his letter stated that "not having a licence has placed more stress on others.

"He should never do anything like this again," she said.

"This young man needs to learn that driving is an adult privilege."

The offender showed apparent remorse, Magistrate Moody said, and was looking "down the barrel of a successful career".

The driver was found guilty but without proceeding to conviction, and sentenced to a Conditional Release Order for 12 months.

After handing down the sentence, Magistrate Moody addressed the young driver directly.

"I think you've learnt a lesson," she said.

"Don't do a stupid thing like that again because you won't get another chance."