YouTube Video Nets Cyclist 12 Weeks in Jail

A British motorcyclist who posted a video of himself on YouTube pushing 130 mph on his bike has drawn a 12-week jail term.

You know, you might not be able to believe everything you read, hear, or see via the Internet…but that doesn’t mean nobody will believe it. Just as job applicants are finding that embarassing photos and claims posted to MySpace and Facebook profiles can interfere with their job prospects, a British motorcycle enthusiast has drawn a 12-week jail term for posting a video of himself driving illegally around Banbury, Oxfordshire.

Sandor Ferenci, age 28, had a friend film his motorcycle antics in and around Banbury, Oxfordshire, in June 2008, performing stunt tricks, wheelies, and skids, as well as racing at estimated speeds up to 130 mph—including going down the wrong side of the road. A motorist took down Ferenci’s registration while he was doing the stunts…which lead police to his house. When confronted by officers, Ferenci reportedly asked “Is this about the YouTube video?” The court was treated to a viewing of the video Ferenci had posted to YouTube.

The judge characterized Ferenci’s actions as “lunatic and grossly irresponsible.” Ferenci admitted to two counts of dangerous driving, and will have to serve 12 weeks in jail. In addition, his driving license will be revoked for two years, and he will have to take an extended drivers’ test before he can get it back.