Courts / Meath / Report
Former League of Ireland footballer jailed for moving cocaine
Summary
Daniel Joyce, a 29‑year‑old former League of Ireland footballer, was arrested after Gardaí stopped him for erratic driving on the M50. A search of his car revealed over €27,000 worth of cocaine in the boot and about €5,400 in cash. Joyce, who had a history of drug use after his playing career ended, pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine for sale or supply. He also admitted to a drug debt of a few hundred euros and a loan of €5,000. The court found he had used his address for cutting up and distributing cannabis. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to three years' imprisonment, noting Joyce's mature status but gross error of judgment. The sentence reflects the drug offence and the associated financial debts.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Former League of Ireland footballer jailed for moving cocaine. Charges or matters: possession of cocaine for sale or supply on the M50 northbound, Dublin, on July 17, 2020. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- July 17, 2020 Incident
- 2022-01-13 Publication
Why: In interview with gardaí, Joyce explained that he had been asked to "do a drop-off" and park the car in Ashbourne. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: possession of cocaine for sale or supply on the M50 northbound, Dublin, on July 17, 2020 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Passing sentence today, Judge Martin Nolan said Joyce came to the attention of gardaí when he was driving "erratically" on the motorway, was stopped and the cocaine was found in the boot of his car. Judge Nolan sentenced Joyce to three years imprisonment.
Convicted Person
Charges: possession of cocaine for sale or supply on the M50 northbound, Dublin, on July 17, 2020 (Alleged Or Contested)
Outcome: former League of Ireland footballer who was caught transporting over €27,000 in cocaine has been jailed for three years.
Places mentioned
Topics
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