Judge strikes out driving charge against former British policeman on Cork island

The case involved a collision between two cars that were travelling in opposite directions along a narrow section of road

Bantry District Court heard that the defendant had long-standing ties to Bere Island and had worked as a police officer in the UK. File picture: Dan Linehan

A careless driving charge against a former policeman has been struck out in the district court.

Outlining the facts of the case Sergeant Trish O’Sullivan told Bantry District Court that on September 5, 2024, at around 2pm a road traffic accident occurred at Ballynakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork.

The court heard that two cars were travelling in opposite directions along a narrow section of road. 

One of the cars was driven by Michael Murphy, aged 71 of Ballynakilla, Bere Island, Castletownbere, Co. Cork. The other car had four occupants who were from East Cork and were visiting Bere Island for a stag party.

The court heard the two cars met on the narrow road and Mr Murphy was unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. The court heard the four people in the other car did not immediately report the accident but did so when they returned home to the mainland.

Defence solicitor, Flor Murphy, said his client had no previous convictions and was pleading guilty even though he also stated the other car failed to stop in time. 

He said Murphy had long-standing ties to Bere Island and had worked as a police officer in the UK. He said his client accepted it was a narrow road and he was driving too fast.

Judge Joanne Carroll said Murphy was 71 years old and had no previous convictions and she would be striking the matter out.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.