Judge Jane Auxier had no sympathy for Rodney Dean Johnson, 26, who lied to ICBC and the RCMP repeatedly. The Judge doubled the fine recommended by the Crown and ordered Johnson to pay ICBC's costs of undertaking DNA testing, a bill of $1,076.

On June 30th, 2007, Johnson was driving along Highway 1 in North Vancouver when he slammed the truck into a signpost. The car was found abandoned on the shoulder of the roadway at 4:30am, with the airbag deployed.

Later that morning Johnson called North Vancouver RCMP and reported the vehicle stolen. He filed a theft claim with ICBC a few days later.

ICBC's Special Investigations Unit got involved and submitted the driver's side airbag for forensic testing, which revealed the DNA on the bags matched that of Johnson. SIU investigators also examined his cell phone records, which led them to his girlfriend who lived close to where the vehicle had been found. She initially gave a false statement but told investigators Johnson admitted to her that he had been drinking, drove off the highway, and then abandoned the vehicle.

Johnson was charged with and pleaded guilty to making false and misleading statements to ICBC, in violation of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act. He must also pay a $300 victim surcharge.