Kildare driver fined for hit and run
The offence occurred on Edward Street, Newbridge
A CHILDCARE worker responsible for a hit and run in Newbridge was fined €500, but didn’t lose her licence because she was fully insured.
Abimbola Owolawi (39), with an address in Castlefen, Sallins appeared in Naas District Court last week (9 April) for sentence having previously pleaded guilty to the offence.
Sergeant Mary Meade reminded the court of the events of 7 July 2023, which happened on Edward Street in Newbridge.
“At around 2pm, a man came into Newbridge Garda Station to report that as he was parking he was hit by another car which failed to stay,” she said.
“So how did they find her?” asked Judge Desmond Zaidan.
“The injured party took her registration,” said Sgt Meade.
She then explained that the defendant had five previous convictions, but none since 2013.
“The insurance companies have divvied this up between them already,” said her barrister Donncha Craddock.
“She always has been pleading guilty, and dealing with the gardaí,” he said.
“My client works in childcare and is very worried this will interfere with her vetting.
“I was wondering if the court would be amenable to a (charitable) donation?” he asked hopefully.
“No, I can’t do that. She is not in a position to deal with me,” said the judge.
“Inspector (Pat Kelly), can you call the other driver and find out how much damage was done?” he suggested, before changing his mind, and fining her.
He set the fine at €500, and set her appeal bond at the same amount.
