'Driving well in excess of the speed limit': Man convicted of careless driving in Longford

A 19 year-old man, who admitted two counts of careless driving on the same date in North Longford, has been convicted and fined but he has been given a 'chance' and avoided a driving ban.

Alex Thomsen (19) of Rathowen, county Westmeath pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to two counts of careless driving at Lisryan, Granard and Balloo, Granard on May 23, 2025.

Sergeant Mark Mahon, for the State, said gardaí were on mobile patrol at 9.45pm on the day in question and whilst driving towards Granard they were met by the defendant's car.

"He appeared to be driving well in excess of the speed limit and they turned the patrol car and followed him."

Sgt Mahon said Gardaí followed the defendant through two townlands where the speed limits were 60kph and 80kph.

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y"At all times his speed was in excess of 100kph and at one stage the gardaí looked at the speedometer on the car and estimated he was travelling at about 120kph."

During Mr Thomsen's last court appearance in January, Judge Bernadette Owens had ordered him to complete a driver awareness course.

The defendant had no previous convictions.

Solicitor Frank Gearty, defending, said his client's father was in court supporting him and the report and remarks from the driving school were 'very impressive'.

Mr Gearty said there was a belief following his clients last court appearance that the initial dangerous driving charges might be reduced to careless driving and Judge Owens said having heard the details she was satisfied with the defendant being prosecuted for careless driving as she summed up.

"A plea was entered, I was told this young man had no previous convictions and his work record was outlined to me along with a letter from his employer.

"I directed the defendant to organise and do a Pro Social driving which he obviously did and he did that and he engaged well.

"I am giving you a chance Mr Thomsen but you will not get this opportunity again.”

Judge Owens subsequently imposed a €600 fine with nine months to pay.

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