Gardai found knuckle-duster in man's van

A 67-year-old man who was found to have a knuckle-duster in his van was convicted and fined for the offence when he appeared at Manorhamilton District Court.

Gary Goodspeed, 4 Hillside View, Killargue, Co Leitrim pleaded guilty to possession of an article with intent to cause injury, a knuckle-duster, and not having a valid commercial vehicle roadworthiness certificate on April 6, 2022 at Carrickleitrim, Manorhamilton.

His vehicle was searched on that date and Garda Powell found the knuckle-duster in the pocket of the door of his van.

Mr Goodspeed said he didn't know what it was and that a friend had given it to him as a joke.

Conor Maguire, solicitor, said Mr Goodspeed lives about five miles from Manorhamilton and the vehicle is now off the road and he doesn’t intend to drive again. He said the knuckle-duster was a “novelty item” given to him as a joke.

The court heard the defendant has five previous convictions but none for road traffic offences or any of a violent nature.

Judge Sandra Murphy convicted and fined him €150 for having the offending item and made an order for its destruction.

She also convicted and fined him €150 for not having a roadworthiness certificate.

A certificate of legal aid was granted.