Longford man with over 50 previous convictions fined for speeding

A serial offender, who was caught driving at almost twice the speed limit and failed to pay a speeding fine, has been convicted.
Darren Kelly (39) of Ballynagoshen, Edgeworthstown pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the offence.

Garda Edward Flanagan said he was conducting a speed check on October 8, 2024 when he recorded the defendant driving a car at 96kph in a 50kph zone.

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The officer said he pursued the motorist and he stopped him at Ballynagoshen, Edgeworthstown where he spoke to him about the manner of his driving.

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Garda Flanagan said Mr Kelly, who could offer no reasonable excuse for his driving, produced a full Irish driving licence.

Garda Flanagan said he issued a fixed charge notice, which he stated the defendant accepted.

Mr Kelly had 50 previous convictions.

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Sergeant Mark Mahon informed Judge Bernadette Owens the defendant had received a three year suspended sentence last year for a separate offence.

However, the court heard that punishment came prior to the October 8, 2024 incident so the suspended sentence could not be triggered or reactivated.

Judge Owens considered the case and she decided to impose a €400 fine with six months to pay.

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