A priest in Choroszcz, Poland, is facing up to five years in prison after allegedly driving while prohibited and failing to pay for fuel on January 19, 2026.
Incident in Choroszcz
On January 19, 2026, in Choroszcz, Podlaskie Voivodeship, a 40-year-old clergyman allegedly purchased goods at a gas station but did not pay for the fuel.
Investigators state the priest was also driving despite a court order prohibiting him from operating any motor vehicles and having his driving license for category B vehicles revoked.
Prior Convictions
The priest has a prior criminal record. Prosecutor Elwira Laskowska of the Białystok District Prosecutor’s Office stated this is not his first offense.
“This is already another crime committed by the clergyman. Previously, he was already convicted twice by the Regional Court in Białystok on January 18, 2024, for driving a car while intoxicated, and by the Regional Court in Sokółka on September 10, 2024, for failing to comply with the ban on operating any motor vehicles,” Laskowska said.
Potential Penalties
The Białystok District Prosecutor’s Office filed an indictment against the priest with the local district court on April 21st.
He faces a prison sentence of three months to five years if convicted.
Police Response to Driving Bans
A driving ban is a criminal measure imposed on individuals who violate traffic laws, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Despite these bans, police continue to apprehend drivers who knowingly disregard court orders, endangering other road users, according to a press release from the KWP in Radom.
Expedited Proceedings
Police are implementing an expedited procedure allowing suspects to be brought before a court within 48 hours of arrest.
“Every case of violating a court-ordered driving ban will be met with decisive intervention by law enforcement. Expedited proceedings are an effective way to eliminate irresponsible drivers who knowingly ignore applicable law,” police stated.
