Driving ban for Stranorlar drug-driver

A Stranorlar man has been banned from driving following a drug-driving detection.

Gardai were on mobile patrol on February 2, 2020, when they observed a Ford Focus traveling at speed at Trentabuoy, Drumkeen.

The vehicle was stopped and the driver’s eyes were bloodshot.

Stephen Doherty (27) of Castle Gardens, Drumboe, Stranorlar, subsequently tested positive for the prince of cocaine and cannabis.

Mr Frank Dorrian, solicitor for Doherty, told Letterkenny District Court that his client was a parent who had another child on the way.

“He has some mental health difficulties,” Mr Dorrian said. “He dealt with this as reasonably and efficiently as he could.

“His driving career will be impeded.”

Mr Dorrian said that Doherty’s recovery ‘is an ongoing project’ and he does some part-time work in the motor industry.

Judge Alan Mitchell convicted Doherty and fined him €200 with six months to pay. Doherty was also disqualified from driving for a period of one year.