Two men from Derry were disqualified from driving at the local Magistrates' Court in connection with separate incidents.

John Boyle, 55, of Drummard Close, was convicted in his absence of obstruction, failing to report an accident, and failing to remain at the scene. The charges stem from an incident on March 5, 2025, when police received a report of a single vehicle accident. A witness said a man walked away from the scene with number plates concealed under his clothing.

Police traced the vehicle to an address but did not find Boyle there. His solicitor, Seamus Quigley, told the court that Boyle claimed a dog ran in front of his car, causing the crash. Quigley said a disqualification would cause considerable difficulties for his client.

District Judge Suzanne Rice described Boyle's record as appalling, noting he had tried to hide the number plates. He was disqualified from driving for six months and fined a total of £650.

In a separate case, Sean Williams, 54, of Rinmore Drive, was charged with careless driving and failing to provide a specimen. The court heard that police stopped Williams in Great James Street in the early hours of June 7 after observing his vehicle being driven erratically and swerving.

Officers detected a strong smell of alcohol and found a half bottle of vodka in the vehicle. Williams made several attempts to provide a breath specimen but failed. Defence counsel Michael Donaghy said his client had been candid with police and no witnesses were required.

Judge Rice said the failure to provide a specimen was directly linked to serious impairment from alcohol. Williams was disqualified for 18 months and fined a total of £700.