Suspended prison sentence for Longford woman who was caught driving twice while disqualified
The Longford town-based defendant pleaded guilty to a series of driving related offences, including drug driving
A mother of two, who was caught driving twice while disqualified by Gardaí, has been handed a four month suspended prison sentence and a six year driving ban.
Jennifer Forde, White Line Woods, Longford, pleaded guilty to a series of driving related offences, including drug driving at the local district court last Tuesday.
Sergeant Mark Mahon said Gardaí were on patrol at Lamagh, Newtownforbes on April 4, 2024 when they stopped the defendant.
"The driver admitted she was disqualified at the scene and she was arrested," he added.
Sgt Mahon said officers subsequently carried out a drugs test on Ms Forde, which found cannabis in her system.
The prosecuting officer stated Ms Forde was also observed driving by Gardaí in county Longford on September 3, 2024.
"She was known to them and she was known to be disqualified and she was arrested and charged," he added.
The defendant had 13 previous convictions.
Solicitor Frank Gearty accepted they were very serious matters, but he asked Judge Bernadette Owens not to send his client to prison.
"She understands the seriousness of this and since she has become aware of the situation she has not reoffended," he said. "She has learnt from the process, given up alcohol and moved into a different stage of her life."
The court heard Ms Forde had a modest income.
Judge Bernadette Owens decided to suspend the prison sentence for an 18-month period and along with the driving disqualification she imposed a €300 fine with five months to pay.