A JUDGE HAS criticised the State for not charging a man driving at excessive speeds with dangerous driving.
At Naas District Court on Thursday, William O’Gorman, 28 Glenview, Carragh-on-Suir, Co Tipperary, appeared for not paying a fixed penalty charge after being caught driving at a speed of 172km/hr in a 120km/hr zone, at the M7 Osberstown, Naas, on 4 September 2015.
The 28-year-old man, who earns €800 per week in a security position in Munster, told the court that he did not receive the fixed penalty notice.
Judge Desmond Zaidan said that he was “amazed” that the man was not charged with dangerous driving and was only dealt with by a fixed penalty notice.
The judge added:
He is very fortunate that the guard did not charge him with dangerous driving. It is just so disproportionate that this man got a fixed penalty notice the same as people caught driving 59km in a 50km zone.
This man was offered to pay a fixed penalty notice and five penalty points. I am amazed that he is not charged with dangerous driving, but if that is the State’s decision.
Garda Inspector Mel Smith outlined how the accused had previous convictions for having bald tyres and one for assault.
Defence solicitor Seamus Boyle told the court that O’Gorman is in full-time employment. The court heard that he has two children and his wife is expecting their third child soon.
Mr Boyle said that O’Gorman works for a security firm around Munster and needs his car. He offered to give €1,000 to the poor box.
Judge Desmond Zaidan said that he could not accept a payment to the poor box.
O’Gorman was convicted and fined €600 and was given three months to pay. He was disqualified from driving for one year.
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