Louth driver caused €9,400 damage to fuel pump

A motorist who reversed into a fuel pump causing it more than €9,000 damage has had a resultant summons adjourned for a probation report.

Darren Murden (34), Fatima Park, Dundalk, admitted criminal damage at Maxol, Castletown Road, on June 17, 2018.

The DPP had directed summary disposal of the matter in the district court. Judge Fiona Brennan accepted jurisdiction.

Evidence was presented that at 8.30am the defendant drove a Volkswagen Passat onto the forecourt. He got and paid for fuel.

On seeing a black Transit van pulling up, Mr Murden reversed at speed into a pump, causing €9,461 damage.

The court heard of two previous arson convictions stemming from the same date.

Solicitor Conor MacGuill asked the court to mark a plea of guilty and direct a probation report.

He suspected the matter had been dealt with by the filling station’s insurance.

His client was of limited means. He was in receipt of disability allowance.

Mr MacGuill added there was a context to why this happened.

In adjourning the case to May 15, Judge Fiona Brennan said Mr Murden should consider a charitable donation.

Legal aid was granted.

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