PTSD suffering soldier released from Ukrainian army admits no insurance in Laois 

A man who suffered PTSD after serving with the army in Ukraine pleaded guilty to driving without insurance three times in five months. 

Levani Papashvili (27) of Corville House, Sean Ross Abbey, Roscrea, Tipperary admitted driving without a licence or insurance at Patrick  Street, Durrow on May 20 last. 

He also admitted to the same offence on the Mountrath Road, Boghlone, Portlaoise on August 26 and at Towns Park, Borris-in-Ossory on October 22, 2024. 

Judge Andrew Cody noted the three offences involved different vehicles. “Three different cars, one every two months,” he said. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was from Ukraine and he fully understands the severity of his actions. 

“He is here about a year after being released from his duty suffering with PTSD,” she said. 

Judge Cody asked if there was any evidence that the man had served in the Ukrainian army.

“Does he have any proof that he is Ukrainian?” asked Judge Cody. 

He put the case to second call in order for the man’s details to be ascertained. 

When the case was called again, Ms Fitzpatrick informed Judge Cody that her client was Georgian and had served in the Ukrainian army. 

“23 weeks he was in the Ukrainian army,” Judge Cody noted.

He said the man was accused of not having a driving licence or insurance on three occasions in three separate cars. 

Ms Fitzpatrick said her client was in no doubt as to the severity of the offences and the potential penalties. She said he has been in Ireland  for a year and is working in a self employed capacity in the building industry. 

Judge Cody fined the man a total of €2,550 and banned him from driving for six years. 

“He is very fortunate he is not facing an immediate prison sentence,” Judge Cody told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court.