2022-02-14 · Limerick
Driver who rammed patrol cars fails in bid to overturn conviction
Daniel Kelly, aged 35, was convicted and jailed for two years after a high‑speed chase in County Limerick. He had repeatedly rammed Garda patrol cars, driven at 130 kph in 80 kph zones, and collided with other vehicles while evading arrest. The jury found him guilty of one count of damaging property, one count of endangerment, and three counts of dangerous driving. He was banned from driving for six years. Kelly appealed, claiming the trial judge erred in law and fact, and that the judge failed to properly instruct the jury on the lack of forensic examination of his van. The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, ruling that the judge's conduct was not unfair and that the jury instructions were adequate. The convictions and bans remain in force.