On June 17, 2023, 54-year-old Kathleen Depoorter was driving a golf cart on public roads in Knokke-Heist. During a police check, the driver appeared to be under the influence. In addition, she was not wearing a seat belt and could not provide an insurance document.
Based on these findings, the defendant had to answer for several violations before the police court. She also refused a breath test and transported more people than allowed. The defendant was also charged with driving while intoxicated.
No longer punishable
Due to her position as a federal representative, the defendant’s parliamentary immunity had to be lifted first, but due to a mistake, this only happened before the criminal court. In those circumstances, the police court declared the criminal action inadmissible on November 18 last year.
Ultimately, Depoorter’s parliamentary immunity was also lifted before the police court. At the retrial, the defense successfully argued that there was no intoxication. In addition, the facts surrounding seat belt use and the number of passengers turned out to be outdated. Finally, it is no longer a criminal offense that she could not provide proof of insurance.
Verdict
For refusing a breath test, the police judge sentenced Kathleen Depoorter on Monday morning to a fine of 2,000 euros, of which 400 euros was effective. The politician was also given a driving ban of 45 days, of which one month was suspended. When determining the penalty, the exceeding of the reasonable period was taken into account.