Drunk man was found on roadside

A Ballycroy man found drunk on the side of the road was told to “do the Lotto tonight". 

Joshua Lynch, aged 27, of Drumslide, Ballycroy, pleaded guilty to the public order offence when he appeared before last week's sitting of Belmullet District Court.

The court heard Gardaí were on patrol in Bangor Erris at 1.10am on August 23 last when they discovered an “extremely drunk” Lynch lying on the side of the road.

Lynch’s legal representative was absent due to the ongoing solicitors’ strike but he indicated he was willing to enter a guilty plea.

Judge Alan Mitchell said the defendant's guilty plea would lead to a “good discount” on the fine he was facing.

The judge convicted and fined Lynch €50. He said Lynch, who has a number of previous convictions, had received a “good deal".

Judge Mitchell said Lynch had avoided a potential fine of €250 and told the man to “do the Lotto tonight".

• Published as part of the Courts Reporting Scheme.