Courts / Dublin / Report

'I blame the mother': roads offender positive for cannabis when she knocked down girl (3)

Summary

A roads offender, Charlene Lawlor, tested positive for cannabis when she knocked down a three-year-old girl on a pedestrian crossing in Dublin 12, leaving the child with a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain. Lawlor initially blamed the child's mother for not keeping her daughter back on the scooter, but later expressed regret for her victim-blaming comments and acknowledged her culpability. The incident occurred on June 21, 2022, when Lawlor, driving at a speed exceeding the 30 km/h limit in effect due to nearby schools, collided with the child. The girl required emergency treatment and ongoing medical care, including regular MRIs and injections. Lawlor, who has eight previous road traffic convictions, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm and drug driving. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a urine analysis report and noted that Lawlor should pay for it herself. The court also heard that Lawlor had a difficult childhood and currently has stable housing. The case was adjourned for finalisation on October 20.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'I blame the mother': roads offender positive for cannabis when she knocked down girl (3). Charges or matters: careless driving causing serious bodily harm on her trial date last March; a charge of drug driving. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• June 2022 Incident
• June 21, 2022 Incident
• October 20 Adjournment
• 2026-05-12 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Road Traffic Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report