Liverpool FC rising star Jordon Ibe was labelled a ‘man of good character’ as he was found not guilty of failing to provide identification.
Ibe, 19, of Scarisbrick, West Lancashire, did not reply to a Cheshire Police notice within 28 days because he did not receive it until the deadline had passed.
The England U21’s player was charged with failing to provide information towards the ID of the driver of a Range Rover on April 14.
District Judge Michael Abelson found Ibe not guilty at Chester Magistrates Court on Monday.
The mail went to his mother’s address in Ormskirk, but she was in London while the house was renovated and Ibe stayed with his stepfather.
Judge Abelson said: “This was a temporary change in address.
“As soon as Mr Ibe knew about the notice he dealt with it immediately.
“It doesn’t seem to me he was avoiding responsibility and this is a man of good character.”
Ibe was driving in Crewe when he ‘dinged’ a wing mirror on March 14, according to prosecution lawyer Marie Haydon.
No charges were brought for the incident, but the driver of the other car told police.
A notice was sent to the Ormskirk address where Ibe’s Range Rover was registered, with a reply needed by April 14.
The 19-year-old said: “I didn’t think there was anything to be concerned about.
“The house had to be refurbished, when mum got back she gave it to my stepdad to pass to the solicitors.
“I hadn’t any arrangements to pick up the mail because I usually don’t get any unless it’s a bank statement.”
Ibe has since moved to a new address.
The winger has made five Premier League appearances for Liverpool FC so far this season.
He did not come off the bench in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Everton in the Merseyside Derby.
