Ex-Irish Footballer Jailed for Cocaine Possession and Dangerous Driving

Former Republic of Ireland footballer Anthony Stokes has been sentenced to 15 months in prison after pleading guilty to possessing almost €4,000 of cocaine for sale and supply. The sentencing took place at the Dublin District Court, where he also faced charges of dangerous driving, uninsured driving, and failing to produce a driving licence.

Judge Gráinne Malone handed down the sentence following Stokes’ involvement in a high-speed police chase on January 6, 2023, during which he reached speeds of 160km/h while over the legal alcohol limit. Stokes was also found guilty of possessing 86 illegal tablets shortly after the chase, which the judge considered an aggravating factor.

The former Celtic and Sunderland player, residing in Summerhill Place, Dublin, was denied a suspension of the sentence and was also handed a five-year driving ban. Despite lodging €1,000 and being released on bail pending appeal, Stokes had previously failed a drug test, indicating cocaine traces in his system.

“He’s trying to battle his demons,” stated defence solicitor Lorraine Stephens, “and may need proper residential treatment.” Stephens also highlighted Stokes’ cooperation with authorities, his earlier guilty pleas, and his struggle with addiction, suggesting community service as an alternative to imprisonment due to his potential contribution to the community.

Garda Radoslaw Konczewski testified regarding the chase that led from Walkinstown Avenue to Phoenix Park, during which Stokes ran multiple red lights and nearly caused a collision. Cocaine was later found in a sock hidden in his car’s air vent, linked to Stokes via DNA evidence.

Stokes has a history of legal troubles, including a previous conviction for assault in 2013, which resulted in a suspended sentence. The court noted his prior failure to appear in court and a history of custody in another jurisdiction.

Adding to the complexities of his charges, Stokes was also found with a quantity of Clonazepam in January 2023 while acting suspiciously, providing guard details and demonstrating signs of being under the influence. Family members attended court in support of Stokes throughout the proceedings.

Despite efforts to mitigate the punishment, Judge Malone emphasized the severity of Stokes’ offenses, notably the life-risking speeds and continuation of drug use post-bail. Stokes, following the arrest, cooperated fully, which was acknowledged in court.