By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 12:30, Saturday, 24 November 2012

A man who refused to pay his council tax has been given a suspended prison sentence.

David Renwick, 54, of High Street, Maryport, had failed to pay £1,608.35 during the past two years.

West Allerdale magistrates heard that Renwick was refusing to recognise the jurisdiction of the court, and he was found guilty of willful refusal to pay.

He was given a 90-day prison sentence, suspended on the condition he pays the outstanding amount within 28 days. Magistrates also ordered him to pay £240 costs.

An Allerdale council spokesman said: “The council will continue to bring persistent council tax defaulters to court and seek custodial sentences in order to ensure payment for essential services.”

He added that anyone genuinely struggling to pay their council tax should contact the council to discuss payment by calling 01900 702530 or visiting www.allerdale.gov.uk/counciltax.

First published at 12:26, Saturday, 24 November 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk