Drunk driver disqualified at Longford District Court

A Roscommon man convicted of drink driving was disqualified from driving for two years at Longford District Court. David Nugent (38) of Cloonad, Rooskey, Roscommon was charged with drink driving on December 19, 2021 at Schoollands, Ballinalee.

Charges of driving without insurance and failing to produce insurance were struck out.

Details of the case were heard in February, however Judge Bernadette Owens adjourned the matter to review a submission by the defendant's barrister, Niall Flynn BL.

Mr Flynn's submission related to evidence given to court about when the interviewing Garda had signed the witness statement of his client. Counsel said by signing before the defendant the officer had nullified the statement.

Judge Owens said having considered all the evidence she believed Mr Nugent fully understood the process and had cooperated with the Gardaí and the statement could be admitted as evidence.

Taking the facts of the case into consideration Judge Ownens imposed a fine of €500, giving Mr Nugent four months to pay.

A disqualification of two years was also imposed. Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal on the defendant's own bond of €250.