A Kilalla man who was detected drink driving on New Year’s Eve was warned by Judge Patrick Clyne that he would serve a prison sentence if he breaks the conditions of a suspended sentence which was imposed on him at Ballina District Court on Tuesday.
Darren Robinson, Meelick, Kilalla, was arrested at 12.35pm in the Knockmore area on New Year’s Eve on the suspicion of drink driving. A subsequent breath sample showed 79mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath. Robinson was also driving without insurance.
Judge Clyne said that it was the dreariest New Year’s Eve ever and asked why Robinson didn’t stay at home and watch TV.
Solicitor Aidan Crowley said that the defendant has since been disqualified for another driving offence and has a problem with alcohol, to which Judge Clyne replied “that is the understatement of the year”. Mr Crowley said that Robinson wanted to address this problem and go to Hope House.
The judge sentenced Robinson to three months in prison suspended for two years provided that he stays alcohol free at all times and is on good behaviour. The defendant was also disqualified for six years and warned by the judge that if he is brought back to court “I’ll straighten him out”, before adding “I don’t ever want to see you again”.
