Fines based on personal wealth

[Jim Johnson]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8446545.stm

A Swiss millionaire has been handed down a record speeding fine of $290,000 (£180,000) by a court.

The man was reportedly caught driving a red Ferrari Testarossa at 137km/h (85mph) through a village.

The penalty was calculated based on the unnamed motorist's wealth - assessed by the court as $22.7m (£14.1m) - and because he was a repeat offender.

It is more than double Switzerland's previous record speeding fine - handed to a Porsche driver in Zurich in 2008.

In the latest case, the motorist was clocked speeding 57km/h (35mph) faster than the limit, according to the cantonal court in St Gallen, eastern Switzerland.

"The accused ignored elementary traffic rules with a powerful vehicle out of a pure desire for speed," the court said in its judgement.

Swiss media reported that the man owns a villa with five luxury cars, including the Ferrari.

[Puke]

Makes sense to me.

[Lloyd Danforth]

'From each according to his to his 'ability!'  It's in the Constitution, Man!

[KBCraig]

If the goal is just punishment, it should be equally painful for all.

The additional revenue is merely an unintended consequence, I'm sure.