Longford defendant makes Poor Box payment to avoid a conviction

A young man who was abusive to a Garda when stopped for dangerous driving was fined for his interaction with the officer, but has a chance to benefit from the Probation Act in respect of a public order charge.

Luke Purcell (18) of 78 McKeown Park, Longford was before the court on three charges. The defendant was charged with obstructing a Garda, dangerous driving, and engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour on June 28, 2022.

The court had previously heard details of the incident at the Red Cow Roundabout, Aughadeignan Longford, when Purcell obstructed Garda David Gerrity in the execution of his duty after he was stopped for dangerous driving.

Solicitor Brid Mimnagh said her client had completed the court recommended online drivers awareness programme. Ms Mimnagh added the defendant has secured full time employment with a local company, but the employment is seasonal and he is off at present.

Detailing aspects of the changes Mr Purcell has made in his life Ms Mimnagh said he no longer associates with parties he was in the company of at the time.

The legal representative said her client's mother is battling lung cancer and his license is important to him to assist in helping her attend medical appointments.

Judge Owens noted that the defendant has completed the online drivers awareness course. The judge registered a conviction and fined the defendant €300 with five months to pay for obstructing the Garda in the execution of his duty.

Judge Owens said if Mr Purcell has €250 in court on May 23 for the poor box she would deal with the threatening and abusive behaviour charge under the Probation Act. The dangerous driving charge was taken into consideration.