Erratic driving: Longford motorist who pleaded guilty to drug driving disqualified for one year

A motorist who was caught with cocaine in his system has been convicted of drug driving and disqualified from driving for one year.

Jason Culhane (40) of 35 Devine Crescent, Edgeworthstown pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the offence at Feraghfad, on December 21, 2023 at 10.15am.

Sergeant Enda Daly said Gardaí stopped the defendant due to the erratic manner of his driving.

"Gardaí subsequently formed the opinion that he had consumed an intoxicant and they requested that an oral fluid test be carried out which returned a positive reading for cocaine." he added.

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Sgt Daly said the defendant was arrested and brought to Longford Garda Station where a blood test was carried out and a sample was provided, which exceeded the drug-driving limit for cocaine.

Mr Culhane had no previous convictions.

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client, a father of four, is currently unemployed, however, he has worked previously as a courier driver and he is hoping to return to work in the near future.

The court heard the defendant, who is in a long-term relationship, had also been caring for his mother around the time of this incident and he is otherwise a man of good character.

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Mr Gearty said his client has limited means and he depends on an invalidity pension and he has various family issues that have to be addressed in relation to medical matters.

Judge Bernadette Owens agreed to a request to defer the mandatory one year disqualification until April 9 and she also convicted and fined the defendant €500 with nine months to pay.