A 20-year-old student has been rapped on the knuckles by a judge over his “very dangerous and excessive” speeding.
Caolan Hackett of Clabby View, Clabby, appeared before Enniskillen Magistrates Court on Monday to face the speeding charge.
The court heard that police on mobile patrol on April 14th this year observed the defendant driving a Seat Leon at 98mph on the A4 Belfast Road at Lisbellaw, where the speed limit is fixed at 60mph.
When stopped by police and cautioned, the defendant replied: “I don’t really have an excuse to be honest”.
Defence solicitor Michael Fahy told the court that his client works as a joiner in Ballygawley and this involves a 30 mile trip from his home every day. He added that Hackett also required his licence as he cares for his grandmother, taking her on errands.
“This was a very high speed and he is aware of the risks he placed at the time on himself and other road users.
“The incident occurred around midnight as he was travelling from Fivemiletown to Enniskillen to lift a friend.
“He let his speed creep up to an inordinate level and there was nothing else in his driving that drew his attention to police other than the speed,” Mr Fahy said.
District Judge Michael Ranaghan told Hackett: “This was a very dangerous and excessive speed. You’re putting yourself and other people at very serious risk by driving at this speed.
“This must be your warning.”
The judge imposed fines totalling £215 and five penalty points.
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