Driver who crashed in Longford was five times over the legal limit
Gardaí were alerted after the defendant overturned a Volkswagen Caddy van
A drunk driver, who was five times over the legal limit and came to the attention of Gardaí when he crashed, has been disqualified for three years.
Damian Ostrowski of Hamlet Lane, Barnwall Court, Balbriggan, Dublin pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the offence on September 10, 2022.
Sergeant Enda Daly said Garda Tracey Shanley was alerted that a single vehicle collision had occurred at Creagh, Edgeworthstown and she went to the area
The officer observed a Volkswagen Caddy van on its roof and a man standing beside the vehicle who she spoke to identified himself as Ostrowski.
The defendant subsequently admitted under caution he had been driving the vehicle when it crashed and Gda Shanley noticed that there was a strong smell of alcohol emanating from him.
The Polish national failed a roadside breathalyser test and he was arrested for drink driving.
Gardaí called an ambulance for Ostrowski and a doctor attended the hospital and a sample of blood was taken and sent for analysis.
A subsequent blood test gave a reading of 247mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. The legal limit is 50mg.
The defendant had two previous convictions.
Judge Bernadette Owens noted a bench warrant had previously been issued, however, solicitor Diarmuid Quinn said his client was in Cuan Mhuire treatment centre at the time.
"He is getting on quite well in Cuan Mhuire and he gained employment there as a chef," he added.
Mr Quinn said Ostrowski is now two years sober since the incident and he has taken responsibility for his actions.
Judge Owens imposed the driving ban along with a €400 fine with five months to pay.