Motorist put off road for drug driving in Limerick
A MAN was before Newcastle West Court for having drugs for sale or supply and for drug driving in Limerick.
Gytis Turauskas, aged 25, of Ardrine, Castlemahon pleaded guilty to possession and having drugs for sale and supply, and drug driving.
Garda Errol Flynn gave evidence of stopping Mr Turauskas while driving at Clooneyscrehane, Newcastle West on April 18, 2022.
“He was asked to take a roadside drug test which was positive for cocaine. I arrested him and conveyed him to Rathkeale Garda Station. A blood specimen taken by a doctor was sent to the Medical Bureau of Road Safety. It was positive for cocaine and cannabis,” said Garda Flynn.
Enda O’Connor, solicitor for Mr Turauskas, asked the investigating garda if his client co-operated fully. Garda Flynn confirmed that he did.
Inspector Barry Manton said gardai carried out a search under warrant at an address in Ardrine, Castlemahon on December 13, 2021.
“A quantity of cannabis valued at €1,877.94 was discovered in addition to self sealing bags, a tick list and weighing scales. He has no previous convictions,” said Insp Manton.
Mr O’Connor said there was an explanation given for the tick list. The solicitor said Mr Turauskas is originally from Lithuania and has been living in Ireland for 10 years.
“He has been working in a factory since 2019. He held his hands up and has taken responsibility. He has undertaken a drug rehabilitation programme and is abstaining from intoxicants. Judge Carol Anne Coolican imposed a one year driving disqualification and fined Mr Turauskas €500 for drug driving.
The judge ordered a probation report with regards to the cannabis seizure and adjourned sentencing until January.