Bridgend man on drugs charges is further charged on suspicion of drug driving

A Bridgend man accused of having drugs for sale or supply last year has been further charged on suspicion of drug driving.

Ivan Peoples, of Carrowreagh, Bridend, faced the new charge at the latest sitting of Buncrana District Court.

The 46-year-old defendant is accused of driving a mechanically-propelled vehicle while being under the influence of an intoxicant to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of said vehicle contrary to Section 4(1) of the Road Traffic Act.

The charge comes after he was stopped by Garda Thomas Duggan at Bonemaine, Bridgend on Sunday, July 27, 2025.

Mr Peoples is already charged with dangerous driving at the same location and on the same date, contrary to Section 53 of the Road Traffic Act.

The defendant was remanded on continuing bail until March 12 on both road traffic matters.

Separately, Mr Peoples is charged with possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling or supplying the substance contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, and possession of cannabis contrary to Section 3 of the same Act.

These charges followed a search of his property at Carrowreagh, Bridgend, on September 19 last year. Buncrana District Court heard how DPP directions are still awaited in the matter, with Sergeant Conor Mulkerns informing the court, “it’s a significant investigation, and it’s still under active investigation.”

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However, defence solicitor Rory O’Brien slammed the guards for taking a “considerable period of time” to build the case, and for “restricting my client’s liberty” in the interim.

“The guards felt the necessity to charge my client in the summertime, bring him to a special sitting in Longford, drive him halfway round the country, then bring him into a court and charge him.”

“It’s now four to six months later, and we’re still no further on.”

“I have no difficulty with an investigation, but I do have a difficulty with my client being charged and then the guards saying ‘We’re still investigating’. He shouldn’t have his liberty restricted until the investigation is complete,” Mr O’Brien blasted.

Sgt Mulkerns reiterated that it’s an “active investigation” – and it’s being carried out as thoroughly and speedily as possible.

Judge Emile Daly adjourned the drugs case against Mr Peoples until February 12 next and said she will “expect some progress on that date”.