‘There’s a first time for everything,’ judge tells accused man

A JUDGE told a man “there’s a first time for everything” when he came before the district court accused of speeding.

Published 26th Jun 2026, 10:00 BST Kilmallock Courthouse | kilmallock court A JUDGE told a man “there’s a first time for everything” when he came before the district court accused of speeding. Sign up to our Limerick Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Limerick Live within your account.

John Keogh, with an address at Fernhill, Farranshone More, Limerick, opted to represent himself when he was brought before Judge Patricia Harney at Kilmallock District Court.

Mr Keogh is contesting the charge that he was speeding at 65 km/h in a 50 zone on the Dock Road, in Limerick city on December 14, 2025.

The man told the court that he denies the charge on the following basis: “I have reviewed the route in question. For a static speed camera to be in operation there has to be signage”.

Prosecuting Garda Inspector Gearóid Thompson said that he will look into the matter.

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Judge Harney asked Mr Keogh what statute or law he was referring to. To this question, the man replied: “I don’t know, judge.”

Mr Keogh further stated: “I’ve never had a speeding offence in my life”.

Judge Harney told the man: “That’s fine. There’s a first time for everything.”

Mr Keogh also asked the court for proof that the speed camera used was calibrated. Insp Thompson provided the man with a copy of the calibration record.

The judge proceeded to adjourn the case to July 24, and commented that she wants Mr Keogh to come to court with knowledge of the law regarding signage for static speed cameras that he referred to previously.

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