Crashed into ditch during garda chase 

A man led gardai on a chase before crashing into a ditch and making off across fields. 

Gerry Pratt, 23, with an address at 5 Ashbury View, Roscrea,  Co Tipperary admitted three counts of dangerous driving, criminal damage and having no licence or insurance at Shanboe, Borris-in-Ossory on March 8 last. 

Garda Cooper said the defendant failed to stop for gardai in Borris-in-Ossory at 3.15pm. The car was pursued and “eventually crashed into a ditch causing damage,” he said. 

“One person escaped through the fields,” he said. The passenger was apprehended. 

He said the accused was arrested on August 1 and was cooperative in custody. He said the man had produced €400 compensation for the repair of the ditch.  The court heard the defendant had three previous convictions. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said it was an impulsive act by his client who realised he had no insurance. 

“In his own words he was gone too far to stop into the pursuit,” agreed Garda Cooper. 

Mr Fitzpatrick said that while it was a serious matter, his client should get credit for the manner in which he dealt with it. He said he admitted to the offences and hasn’t put the State to any extra expense in proving the case. 

“He is aware that he is going to receive a significant disqualification,” he said. 

Judge Andrew Cody fined him €300 and disqualified him for driving for two years. 

He said all of the other matters will go back for a probation and welfare report. 

Judge Cody said the manner in which the defendant had treated the case stood to his credit. 

He adjourned the matter to January 11 for a probation report and warned the defendant to stay out of trouble.