No Reprieve For Drunken Drivers Who Cause Death

It would seem that no matter how mitigating the circumstances, there will not be any reprieve for inebriated drivers who cause death on the roads. There was no greater example of this than the case at Wicklow Circuit Court involving Arklow man Patrick Breen who was given a two year prison sentence for dangerous driving while drunk which caused the death of his best friend.

It was a somewhat unusual case in that the prison sentence went against the wishes of the victim's mother and girlfriend. In so many such cases, the families of such victims would be baying for blood and showing a huge presence at the hearing.

Every possible case was made for Patrick Breen. Judge Raymond Groarke was told that he had slept for a few hours in a house in Wicklow town and started his trip home at 6.30 a.m. His thoughts told him that it would be safe because it was the morning after rather than a drive immediately after a drinking session.

The Judge was also informed that Patrick Breen was seriously injured in the accident and would have difficulty overcoming the trauma. He rarely goes outside his home now. The victim, Philip Byrne was his best friend.

Then came evidence from Mr. Byrne's girlfriend who said that both she and the victim's mother had both forgiven Mr. Breen. It was not their wish to see him go to prison. Such strong mitigating circumstances in favour of the defendant instilled feelings among those most experienced in court matters that a suspended sentence was on the way.

However, Judge Groake, while accepting that it was a sad case, pointed out that drunken driving, leading to dangerous and death was a very serious matter and it had to be perceived that courts would not tolerate such behaviour. He added that it warranted three years in prison but in view of the circumstances he would impose a two year sentence.