Man with over 100 convictions jailed after being caught driving while banned and on probation
A serial offender with 101 previous convictions has been jailed for three months after he was caught driving while banned, uninsured and unlicensed while on probation.
Gary Murphy (40), of Rosemount Park, Dundrum, Dublin 14, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to the offences, which took place on April 17, 2025, on the Green Route in Dundrum.
The court heard that Murphy, who is currently serving a 10-year driving ban, took his partner's car, which had been parked at his home. His partner, who lives in a different area, was experiencing a medical emergency on the day in question. The court was told the defendant could have taken a taxi but chose to drive instead.
Murphy has scores of previous convictions, including for public order offences, criminal damage, assault, and breaches of the Weapons Act. He also has previous convictions for road offences including dangerous driving, drink-driving and driving without insurance.
This case marked his 102nd conviction overall and his third for driving without insurance.
At the time of the most recent offence, Murphy was under the supervision of the probation service. He told the court he is working full-time as a digger operator, pays rent to his father, and contributes maintenance for his two children, aged one and 20.
His most recent convictions were from March 2024, relating to theft, public order, and drug possession. Prior to that, he had not come to Garda attention since May 2019.
Judge Anne Watkin noted the seriousness of Murphy's record and said a custodial sentence was warranted. While she said the charges could have led to a longer prison term, she decided not to impose consecutive sentences and sentenced Murphy to three months in prison.
The court heard that Murphy is not in receipt of legal aid and is paying for his legal representation privately.
Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
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