Man fled Galway city drugs check – despite not having any drugs

The alleged offence is contrary to Section 21 of the Public Order Act.

Inspector Darragh Browne told the court that on October 25, 2025 at Munster Avenue, the accused was part of a group that came to the attention of Gardaí attached to the Divisional Drugs Unit.

The court heard Mark Kearney ran from the scene after being informed he was to be searched under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Inspector Browne said the obstruction only related to the accused fleeing the scene and he confirmed that Kearney has no previous convictions.

Defence solicitor, John Martin, said his client had been drinking all day and what occurred was a ‘matter of poor judgment’.

Mr Martin said no drugs were found on his client when he was searched and he realises he should have remained at the scene.

He told the court that, in the words of Detective Sergeant Whelan, Kearney made a ‘very slow speed getaway’.

Inspector Browne confirmed no drugs were found and Mr Martin said his client is in employment and realises that a criminal conviction for an offence of this nature could have serious consequences for his ability to travel abroad.

"This incident appears to be out of character", he added.

Judge John King told the accused that he had been ‘very well advised’ and if he had contested the case and lost, a custodial sentence would have been on the court's mind.

He said the court placed ‘huge weight’ on the accused's guilty plea and took into account that travel could be very important to his job.

Judge King struck out the charge, meaning that no conviction is recorded, and told Kearney: "Don't do anything daft again".

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