Teen’s drunk in public case struck out at Leitrim court

A 19-year-old man found intoxicated while attempting to access his car in Carrick-on-Shannon had his case struck out at Carrick-on-Shannon District Court on January 27 after making a charitable donation.

Carrick-on-Shannon District Court heard that Gardaí encountered Christopher Kelly at around 3.25am on November 3 last at Townparks, Carrick-on-Shannon, where he appeared highly intoxicated and was attempting to get into a vehicle.

Garda evidence was that Mr Kelly was unsteady on his feet, had slurred speech and “was not making sense” while speaking. He was arrested for his own safety and brought to the station.

The court heard the car was his own and that he had been trying to retrieve a personal item. His intention had been to get a bus home and return the vehicle the following day. Mr Kelly, of Slevin, Castleplunkett, had no previous convictions.

The court was told he is employed as an apprentice fitter and works in Dublin during the week. Judge Éiteáin Cunningham asked if he was willing to make a charitable contribution.

“If he makes a contribution to St Vincent de Paul in the sum of €100 and produces the receipt, I’ll strike the matter off,” the judge said. Mr Kelly subsequently provided proof of the donation to St Vincent de Paul, and Judge Cunningham struck out the case.

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