A Ballymahon motorist who acted “as a good Samaritan” and drove an intoxicated friend home was fined €250, when he pleaded guilty to a drink driving offence at Mullingar Court last week.
Christopher Thompson (21 ), 10 Marian Terrace, was convicted of the offence which occurred at Rathdrisoghue, Glamerstown, Castletowngeoghan on May 11. Inspector Jarlath Folan told the court that the defendant was detected at 11.30pm at that date. He was arrested and gave a breath sample. The court heard that he had previous convictions in Athlone District Court on June 6 2006.
Ms Patricia Cronin, solicitor, told the court that her client, who lives at home, was laid off from work and is doing a FETAC course. He hopes to go to college next year. On the evening of the offence, Christopher Thompson was driving a friend's vehicle, because his friend was intoxicated. He thought it was safer for him to drive. The defendant had stopped drinking earlier in the day and did not think he was over the limit. Ms Cronin said her client was “acting as a Good Samaritan, but it came back to bite him”.
Recognisances were fixed in the event of an appeal at €100 (self ) and €100 (independent surety ).
