Laois drugs charges struck out over delay

Judge Andrew Cody said the Forensic Science Laboratory wasn’t serving the State as it should as he struck out drug charges. 

Avis Rukmans, 26, with an address at 1 Rosslands, Roscrea, Tipperary appeared before Portlaoise District Court charged with possessing cocaine, ketamine and cannabis for sale or supply at Derreen, Durrow on March 28 last year. 

He appeared before Portlaoise District Court where his counsel, Suzanne Dooner BL, argued that the case had been peremptory against the State on a previous occasion but an adjournment was allowed.

“It is effectively super peremptory today,” she said as she requested the matter be struck out. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the case had been delayed as there was a backlog in getting samples tested and certified. 

“The certificate of analysis is back now,” he said. However, he still didn’t have directions from the DPP. 

Judge Andrew said the charges date back to March 2022, 15 months ago. 

“The Forensic Science Laboratory isn’t serving the State as it should,” said Judge Cody as he struck out the charges.