
Garda faces trial for dangerous driving causing serious harm after Brazilian delivery driver's leg severed by car on M50
A GARDA faces trial after a Brazilian delivery driver's leg was severed by a car on the M50 in Dublin in 2023.
Joao Henrique Ferreira, 25, who had lived in
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Joao Henrique Ferreira's leg was severed by a car on the M50 in Dublin in 2023
Credit: Collins Photo Agency
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Garda Neil Doyle is set to face trial
Credit: irishphotodesk.ie
When the incident allegedly occurred, he was at a slip road to the motorway in
Following a probe by Fiosru, the police ombudsman (formerly Gsoc), criminal proceedings have commenced.
The garda, dressed in a suit and tie, stood forward when the case was called, but did not address the court.
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The prosecution told Judge Michele Finan that this was the first listing of the case.
Lawrence Masterson BL, instructed by solicitor Daniel Hughes, representing Mr Ferreira, said his client had travelled back from
Judge Finan noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions had authorised the case to stay in the District Court if the accused pleaded guilty.
Otherwise, it would have to go to the Circuit Court, which has wider sentencing powers.
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Judge Finan held off on hearing an outline of the allegations.
The accused has not indicated a plea and his barrister asked for disclosure of prosecution evidence.
FURTHER SURGERY PLANNED
Judge Finan noted that Mr Ferreira was set to go back to Brazil for further prosthetic surgery in two weeks.
The prosecutor sought a four-week adjournment, which the judge granted.
She also ordered the prosecution to provide the defence solicitor, Liz Hughes, with disclosure of evidence "as soon as possible" so the garda's legal team can "consider his position" and his plea.
She told Garda Doyle he must return on June 12 to indicate a plea, and for the court to consider jurisdiction, and confirm his trial venue.

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