A DRIVER who admitted using a laser device to prevent police catching him speeding has been sentenced in court today.

Ben Kitto, 41, admitted perverting the course of justice and driving at over 70mph on the A64 at Whitwell.

Kitto, from Scarborough, was driving his black BMW on June 30 last year, when a North Yorkshire Police safety camera van tried to measure its speed but the reading was blocked by a laser jammer fitted to his number plate.

The force's Traffic Bureau investigated and seized Kitto’s vehicle, later finding the device. Kitto admitted in interview that he was aware of the device and that it was actively interfering with police speed measurement equipment.

Traffic Constable Andy Forth said: "Kitto believed that he was above the law and did not think he should have to abide by the speed limit, like everyone else.

"His deliberate action to pervert the course of justice by fitting this type of device to his vehicle clearly shows his disregard for the law and the safety of other road users."

TC Forth said this outcome showed the force would investigate fully any cases of similar devices being used, and "to believe you can pervert the course of justice in any way is simply not acceptable".

Kitto received a two month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, 100 hours of unpaid work, five points on his licence and £2,200 in fines and costs.