Young Ballyshannon driver pleads guilty to failing to report causing injury

A 22-year-old man has been sent forward for sentencing at the circuit court for two offences relating to a driving incident in which another man was injured.

Nathan Owens of Tober, Cavangarden, Ballyshannon was before Ballyshannon DIstrict on Friday, December 6. He had been served with the book of evidence at a previous court sitting. 

The matter was adjourned to establish if he was to be sent forward for trial, or if he could be sent forward for sentencing on a guilty plea.

Inspector Anthony Coyle told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions consented to the defendant being sent forward for sentencing on a guilty plea.

Solicitor Frank Dorrian said that it was his client’s wish to enter a guilty plea and proceed to the circuit court on that basis. 

As outlined in the book of evidence, Owens is charged that on September 24, 2022 at Rossnowlagh Lower, being the driver of a vehicle involved in the occurrence of injury to Dara McGloin, he failed to report the occurrence as soon as possible. 

He is also charged with dangerous driving in relation to the same incident. 

Judge Sandra Murphy sent the defendant forward for sentencing at the circuit court on a bail bond of €250. She granted legal aid to Frank Dorrian and two barristers. 

Owens is facing a number of other related charges which will be heard in the district court.