Longford man caught drug driving on three separate occasions inside twelve months

A judge has requested a probation report be compiled on a Longford man who was caught drug-driving three times within a 12-month period.

Simeon Simwanjere (23) of Battery Court, Longford pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the offence on August 17, 2023.

Sergeant Enda Daly said Gardaí were carrying out a speed check at Annaly Park, Longford when the defendant was detected travelling at 80kph in a 50kph zone.

Gardaí spoke to Mr Simwanjere and there was a strong smell of cannabis and he was subsequently asked to provide an oral fluid sample which tested positive for cannabis.

The defendant was arrested and brought to Longford Garda Station where a blood sample was provided and it exceeded the drug-driving limit.

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Separately, Garda Gerrity was on mobile patrol on January 8, 2024 he observed the defendant turn off the Athlone Road without indicating.

He stopped Mr Simwanjere and he noticed he was slouched in the driver's seat and his eyes were glassy and he appeared to be under the influence of a substance or intoxicant.

Garda Gerrity requested him to provide an oral fluid sample which tested positive for cannabis and he was arrested where a blood sample he provided exceeded the drug-driving limit.

The court heard Gardaí were conducting a checkpoint on July 2, 2024 at Deanscurragh, Longford town just after 2pm when they stopped and spoke to the defendant and they noted there was a strong smell of cannabis.

Mr Simwanjere was asked to do an oral fluid test which tested positive for cannabis.

The defendant was arrested and a blood sample was provided that exceeded the drug-driving limit for a third time.

Mr Simwanjere had no previous convictions.

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Solicitor Bríd Mimnagh said her client, who was born and raised here, has had some "family difficulties" but he has continued to work and he stopped taking cannabis three months ago.

"This disqualification may hinder his employment," she added.

Judge Bernadette Owens remanded Mr Simwanjere on continuing bail and she requested a probation report based on his series of drug-driving offences and she ordered him to complete the Pro Social driving course.

She also directed him that he is not permitted to drive a motor vehicle until after the case is finalised before adjourning the case until June 10 next.