Innocence lost (Update: Freedom gained)

PerthNow brings us the absurd story of a Lamborghini Gallardo impounded under WA hoon laws. It has been alleged that the car was bring driven at speeds of up to 160km/h along the Reid Highway in Balcatta, Western Australia.

Not so much absurd about this story then, until you realise the driver of the car is not the owner. The Gallardo wasn’t stolen, either. The owner of the car had left it with his mechanic who it would now appear was unable to resist temptation while taking the 520hp supercar on a test drive.

As a result the car has been locked up for 28 days and WA Police say legislation prevents the car from being released, even though the car’s owner was not involved in the alleged offence. New anti-hooning laws came into play on new year’s day and these prevent release of impounded cars impounded unless they were stolen, are a hire car, were impounded unlawfully or if the car is needed by the owner for medical emergencies.

The owner of the Lamborghini has applied to have the car released, but it seems as though he will have a fight on his hands. WA Police Minister, Rob Johnson, has explained it is incumbent on car owners to know and trust who has access to their vehicle.

If we accept this story on face value, then these anti-hoon laws are a load of crap. If Minister Johnson has any semblance of justice he will be instructing his staff to amend the relevant Act as soon as possible.

UPDATE 8 January: The Herald Sun brings good news to Dr Patrick Nugawela, owner of the impounded Lamborghini Gallardo. Minister Rob Johnson has allowed Dr Nugawela’s car to be released saying, “You can never foresee every eventuality. I’ve listened to the community … I’ve listened to the talk back (radio).” Mr Johnson continued, “At the end of the day I want the community to support these anti-hoon laws. They are meant to protect people and save lives.”

[Source: PerthNow | Thanks to Dylan for the tip]