Limerick driver crashed car while disqualified from driving
The case has been adjourned for a probation report to be prepared
A MAN involved in a single vehicle collision in Croom who had no insurance and no licence and was disqualified from driving at the time has been given the benefit of a probation report.
On June 13, 2022, gardaí responded to an incident in Croom and Cathal Kelly of Water Street, Bruree, was standing beside his vehicle.
Newcastle West District Court heard that Mr Kelly has a previous conviction for no insurance, one for no licence and 24 for non-driving related offences, including drug charges, public order incidents and possession of a knife.
Barrister for Mr Kelly, Conn McMahon BL, said his client was living a “chaotic lifestyle” at that time and conceded that the offence is “somewhat serious” particularly considering that it was the man’s second such offence and that he was disqualified at the time.
Mr McMahon said: “He has had issues with drug consumption and had been attending and residing at a treatment centre - Cuan Mhuire in Athy and his offending comes before the court in those circumstances.”
The 30-year-old has three children ranging in age from three to nine and the court heard that he “very much wants to be part of their lives and hasn’t been as much as he’d have liked.”
His barrister added that his client wants to re-enter society and get back to work in the construction sector.
“I would ask the court to give him a chance,” Mr McMahon said.
Judge Carol Ann Coolican pointed out that there were four bench warrants issued for his arrest, but decided to give him the benefit of the doubt.
A probation report is to be prepared and Mr Kelly was remanded on bail to appear again before Newcastle West District Court on October 17.