Courts / Meath / Report

Banned driver tried to ram pursuing gardai

Summary

Edward Stokes, aged 25, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for endangerment and dangerous driving after a high‑speed chase in Clondalkin and Ballyfermot. On 3 October 2016, Stokes drove through a red light, over a Luas line, and attempted to ram a Garda patrol car, forcing the officers to take evasive action. He then drove into a traveller's site, crashed into a bollard, and fled into an attic where he was arrested. Stokes had 23 prior convictions, including violent disorder and driving offences, and was disqualified from driving at the time of the offence. The court noted his medical condition (necrotising pancreatitis) and his expressed remorse. Judge Cormac Quinn imposed a three‑year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on strict conditions. Edward Stokes pleaded guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Banned driver tried to ram pursuing gardai. Charges or matters: endangerment and dangerous driving at locations in Clondalkin and Ballyfermot on October 3, 2016. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• October 3, 2016 Other
• 2019-10-14 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Road Traffic Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report