County Longford driver who was four times over limit warned about likely penalty by judge

A North Longford man, who was four times over the drink driving limit and also tested positive for drug driving has been directed to engage with the probation services.

Ciaran O'Reilly (23) of 1 Abbey Court, Abbeylara and 9 Tromra Road, Granard pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the offences.

At a previous hearing, Sgt Mark Mahon said Gardaí were on patrol at Rathcronan, Granard on March 18, 2022 when they observed the defendant driving at speed towards Granard and they stopped him and 'became suspicious' he was drunk.

He was arrested where he provided a blood sample that came back positive for drugs.

Officers also observed the defendant make a quick left turn on October 31, 2022 and he was arrested.

A sample of his blood was obtained with a reading of 203mg per 100ml of blood.

The legal limit is 50mg.

Sgt Mahon said Gardaí stopped the motorist on February 8, 2023 at Townspark, Longford at 2pm and there was no tax or NCT cert displayed.

Mr O'Reilly failed a roadside test and blood test at the garda station was positive for drugs.

The defendant was also stopped for speeding and arrested on February 22, 2023 in Ballinalee on suspicion of drug driving and he tested positive for drugs.

Mr O'Reilly had nine previous convictions.

At the previous hearing in June Judge Bernadette Owens had requested a probation report and solicitor John Anderson, defending, said his client has been in contact with the probation services and he 'will work with them'.

Judge Owens requested a follow-up pro social driving certificate is presented to the court and she requested a community service assessment be carried out on Mr O'Reilly.

Judge Owens indicated, if deemed suitable, she may impose 140 hours in lieu of five months in prison on the defendant.

Judge Owens remanded Mr O'Reilly on continuing bail and she directed him not to drive a motor vehicle before subsequently adjourning the case until March 3, 2026.

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