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Driver who caused death of drunk man lying on road avoids jail

Summary

In a case heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, a construction worker, Mohamid Benchouat, aged 25, was given a suspended 12‑month prison sentence for driving without due care and attention, causing the death of Ilmars Zorge, a 33‑year‑old Latvian fruit picker, on the R125 in Swords on 24 June 2018. Benchouat failed to notice Zorge lying on the road, passed the victim and drove over him. Witnesses reported that Benchouat left the scene but later cooperated with Gardaí who traced his vehicle. The judge, Melanie Greally, noted Benchouat's remorse, character references, and previous convictions, including driving without insurance. Benchouat was ordered to keep the peace for the suspended period and pay €2,000 to Zorge's family. The court highlighted the emotional distress and financial burden faced by the victim's family, who had no relatives in Ireland. The case was presented as a serious breach of road safety, with no evidence of extreme speed or intoxication. Mohamid Benchouat pleaded guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Driver who caused death of drunk man lying on road avoids jail. Charges or matters: driving without due care and attention thereby causing the death of Mr Ilmars Zorge on the R125 in Swords on June 24, 2018. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• June 24, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2022-05-04 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report