The defendant was charged with obstructing a license plate contrary to section 13(2) of the Highway Traffic Act.
The evidence showed that the defendant's license plate had faded blue paint, making the numbers difficult to read from a distance.
The Justice of the Peace found that while faded plates should be replaced, the statutory language of section 13(2) contemplates active obstruction by the defendant, not passive deterioration through normal wear and tear.
The court dismissed the charge, finding no evidence of deliberate obstruction.
The court noted that had it been wrong on the law, it would have suspended the sentence given the defendant's financial situation and the fact that he replaced the plates immediately upon being informed of the issue.
