Man watched film on phone while driving on the N77 in Laois
The man pleaded guilty at Portlaoise District Court
A man admitted watching a film on his phone while driving a car in Laois.
David Mamamtavrishvili, 38, of The Montague Hotel, Cappakeel, Emo is accused of having no insurance, failing to produce insurance and holding a mobile phone while driving on the N77 at Knocknamoe, Abbeyleix on July 24, 2023.
Garda Donal Quinlan said the defendant was “watching a film” while holding a phone and driving a Skoda Fabia on the date in question.
Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was entering a guilty plea and is aware there may be serious consequences. She told the court it was important that an early plea be entered in the case.
Judge Andrew Cody noted the defendant was “driving along watching a film” on the day in question.
“You will have enough of a challenge to keep this man out of jail,” Judge Cody said to Ms Fitzpatrick.
She asked the prosecuting garda about the circumstances regarding the defendant watching a film while driving.
Garda Quinlan said the film was still playing on the phone when he pulled the man over.
Ms Fitzpatrick said her client wasn’t working and she asked for legal aid in the case.
“Given the risk that he is at I am going to grant legal aid,” said Judge Cody.
He adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on March 14.