A MAN who passed an intoxiliser test but failed a urine test has been convicted of drug driving at Limerick District Court. Christopher Curtin of 20 Salvia Court, was before judge O’Brien on several road traffic charges including a breach of section 49 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, where he was accused of driving while under the influence of an intoxicant. Currently serving a three year prison sentence with the last year suspended, Curtin was said to have been observed by gardai driving erratically and failed to stop when directed by gardai in Limerick city.
Curtin was apprehended after a car chase when the car he was travelling in crashed.
A urine sample revealed the presence of cannabis.
With several previous convictions including some for unlawful taking of vehicles, no insurance and the unauthorised interference with vehicles, Curtin was represented by Sarah Ryan solicitor, who notified the Court of her client’s lengthy sentence.
Ms Ryan also said that her client had passed the intoxiliser test and if he had failed that he would only be facing a one year ban but he did plead guilty to the charge and the urine reading, before the Court.
Judge O’Brien convicted and fined the accused to €500 and ordered that it be payable forthwith or serve seven days in prison if found to be in default.
Curtin was disqualified from driving for a mandatory period of four years.
Four counts of dangerous driving, one charge of failing to stop and charges relating to driving without insurance or without a licence were taken into consideration.
