Haulier and drivers sentenced for tachograph fraud

A haulage boss, transport manager and nine drivers have been sentenced after a police investigation uncovered fraud at a Northern Ireland transport firm.

Director Michael Doherty received a two-year suspended prison sentence and Patrick Doherty was given 14 months suspended for two years following a probe into Omagh-based Michael Doherty Haulage’s tachograph equipment.

Nine drivers received suspended sentences for offences of fraud by false representation and the company was issued with a confiscation order to make a payment of £247,028 as well as being ordered to pay a fine of £72,000.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said it had worked with the DVA and HMRC to take “an innovative approach” in order to deal with the rogue haulier under fraud laws, rather than road traffic offences.

This meant the case could be dealt with in a crown court instead of a magistrates’ court, resulting in tougher sentences.

Chief Inspector Dodds said: “A significant number of company records along with lorries were seized for detailed analysis. “The investigation identified that the company and a number of drivers were actively involved in the manipulation of tachographs, which allowed the drivers to extend their duty periods beyond the maximum permitted for road safety.

“By using manipulation devices, the odometer, speedometer and speed limiter on the lorry can all be disabled. “This is a highly dangerous activity which poses a significant risk to all road users, as well as creating an unfair economic advantage over other companies in the haulage industry.”