Over the limit Kildare driver stopped his car on a bridge blocking the road

A driver stopped in the middle of a bridge in Clane and stayed in the vehicle, it was claimed at Naas District Court.

Before the court was Pawel Kwasmik, 40, whose address was given as Apartment 4, Capdoo Court, Clane.

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Sgt Mary Meade said that on August 15, 2023, the defendant went on to the wrong side of the road causing another motorist to flash their headlights, before stopping in the middle of the bridge and stayed in the car, blocking the bridge.

The sergeant said a subsequent breath sample returned an alcohol reading of 81.

Sgt Meade alleged  that on February 6, 2021, gardaí found some €660 worth of cannabis, €130 of amphetamines and a small weighing scales at the defendant's address. The court was told the defendant said he grew the cannabis himself.

Sgt Meade also claimed that on February 28, 2025, at Sallins Road, Naas, the defendant was driving and took “a last minute manoeuvre” narrowly avoiding a traffic light at North Main Street, Naas. He was arrested and a breath sample returned an alcohol reading of 95.

Defending solicitor David Powderly said the defendant had significant mental health difficulties and suffered panic attacks and severe anxiety linked to his addiction with alcohol and drugs. 

Mr Powderly said the defendant is now clean, relations with his family have been repaired and he is working.

The solicitor also said he has no previous convictions.

Judge Desmond Zaidan imposed consecutive five month custody terms and disqualified the defendant from driving for a total of six years.