Man passed through toll 127 times without paying

A Northern Ireland motorist who avoided paying tolls by tailgating has appeared before Drogheda Court on a theft charge.

Daniel Reel (32), 6 Garveys Road, Cullyhanna, Co. Armagh, was also up for criminal damage of two barriers at the Northlink M1 Toll Plaza at Balgeen, Julianstown.

Sgt Ray Brady gave evidence the accused made 127 trips in a Ford Transit van through the toll without paying.

The offences occurred between 2 November, 2017 and 28 March, 2018, northbound and southbound; and the sum of money in tolls amounted to €431.80.

Reel also damaged one of the barriers on 26 March last, and another two days later, and didn’t stop his vehicle.

The amount of the damage in each case was €467.40.

Sgt Brady said the accused paid for the damage and the outstanding tolls.

Judge Miriam Walsh struck out the charges.