Yellowknife (May 09/03) - A man who thought his five-year driving prohibition didn't apply to snowmobiles was handed a two-month conditional sentence for driving while disqualified in territorial court this week.

Mitchell Makarenko has six prior drunk driving convictions.

He was stopped by Municipal Enforcement on March 9.

When Makarenko told them his licence was taken away for past offences, they called RCMP.

Crown prosecutor Sadie Bond said a jail term is necessary to address the problem of people who repeatedly drink and drive.

She asked for a two to three month sentence.

Defence lawyer Robert Gorin said this was his client's first time on a snowmobile.

Makarenko was surprised to find out he needed a licence to drive, said Gorin.

Gorin said the man's previous convictions occurred when he was in a troubled relationship.

He has since ended the relationship and quit drinking.

The 31-year-old man has a good job, and his new wife just had a baby.

"Jail is not necessary," said Gorin.

He asked for a fine with probation or house arrest.

He asked for an intermittent sentence if the judge decides incarceration is necessary.

He submitted a glowing letter from the man's supervisor.

Visiting Judge J.F. Arsenault said the man's excuse "could be used by anybody" but decided to give him "the benefit of the doubt" and sentenced him to two months under house arrest. Makarenko can leave his home for work.