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MCSO: An Increasing Number of Unlicensed Drivers in Martin County

MCSO
Tomas Francisco-Manuel
MCSO
Tomas Francisco-Manuel

Martin County - Thursday February 9, 2023: The Martin County Sheriff's Office is reporting an increasing number of unlicensed drivers in the County.

A release on the MCSO Facebook page states that" unlicensed driving is becoming a daily occurrence in our area."

In 2021, MCSO wrote 353 citations for unlicensed driving. In 2022, 471 citations were issued. This year 73-citations were issued in January alone, with 11-months to go.

For example. on Tuesday night of this week Sheriff’s Deputies issued criminal citations against four separate individuals who were driving without a license.

One of the motorists was intoxicated, 29-year old Tomas Francisco-Manuel. He was found to have twice the legal limit of alcohol in his blood when he was stopped for a traffic violation. He was charged with DUI, driving without a license, and possessing a counterfeit social security card.

These citations were not for suspended or revoked licenses. They were issued to drivers who have never held a valid driver’s license, but were driving anyway.

"Driving without a license is illegal," states the release from the Sheriff. "Driving without a license is a second degree misdemeanor punishable with a fine of up to $500 and jail time. Unlicensed drivers who are caught, could have their vehicles towed and will be required to find an alternate ride home.

In addition the Sheriff points out that unlicensed drivers pose risks for other motorists. They are not properly trained and they are not insured.

Licensed motorists are advised to always drive defensively, keep your eyes on the road, and make sure you hold insurance that covers you and your property in the event you are involved in a crash with an unlicensed, uninsured driver.