Longford man who pleaded guilty to motoring offences given time to complete driving course

A defendant who may be in line to receive a community service order rather than a custodial sentence had the case against him adjourned to allow him time to complete a pro-social driving course.

Joe Mears (32) of 7 Richmond St, Longford was initially charged with 14 motoring offences.

Prosecuting Sergeant, Mark Mahon, told Judge Bernadette Owens the charges related to offences on July 7, 2023 at Chapel Lane, Longford, on September 30, 2023 Oakvale, Ardnacassa, Longford, February 28, 2023 Ballinalee Road, Longford, and November 21, 2022 at Oakvale, Templemichael, Longford.

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The charges were driving without a licence, insurance, road tax, non-display of the documents and failing to produce the documents. Solicitor John Quinn told the judge his client was entering a guilty plea to the matters before the court.

Mr Quinn said his client was “in the middle of doing a pro-social driving course” and although a community service report had previously been directed to ascertain if Mr Mears was a suitable candidate for 120 hours of community service his client missed the probation appointment as he had been in the High Court on the day.

A probation assessment was undertaken on the day of the District Court sitting.

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It found Mr Mears was a suitable candidate, however Judge Owens said she would remand on continuing bail to September 9 next to ensure Mr Mears had completed the outstanding pro-social driving course.