Man charged with drink-driving in Kildare goes seven years without a trial
Photo for illustrative purposes
NEITHER the State nor the defence could come with a reason why a man caught allegedly drink driving almost seven years ago was still appearing in court without a trial.
George Sebu (42), with an address on the New Cabra Road, Dublin 7, was stopped on the Dublin Road in Clane on 22 September 2018 where he was breathalysed for drink-driving and subsequently found to have neither licence nor insurance.
“This is his 20th time before me!” exclaimed Judge Desmond Zaidan as he perused the elderly file in his hands at Naas District Court last week.
“I don’t think I’ve ever had more,” he added, with a shake of the head.
“What do you want to do, Mr Kennelly?” said the judge to the defence solicitor when he was made aware Sebu was a no-show.
“I’m going to ask for a 21st!” stated Tim Kennelly.
“He is very ill at the moment,” revealed the solicitor of his client.
“What does he want to do?” asked the judge.
“Keep his licence?” Mr Kennelly pushed again.
“If he’s convicted, he’ll lose his licence,” remarked the judge, as he gave the absent defendant one last chance, and remanded him on continuing bail until 9 October.
“I’ll mark it pre-emptory against this man,” said the judge, meaning this would be his last chance.
