Former Republic of Ireland footballer Anthony Stokes appeared in court after being caught with €4,000 worth of cocaine following a high-speed chase in Dublin on 6 January 2023.
The 36-year-old ex-Celtic and Sunderland player reached speeds of 160 km/h, ran multiple red lights, and nearly collided with another car before being stopped by gardaí after a 10-minute pursuit.
Cocaine hidden in a sock was discovered in his car, and he was found over the alcohol limit.
Stokes pleaded guilty to drug possession for sale or supply, dangerous driving, and driving without insurance or a license.
The court heard that his drink and cocaine addiction spiraled after his football career ended.
His defense solicitor, Lorraine Stephens, explained that Stokes struggled with addiction from a young age, worsened by the abrupt end of his career.
She stated that he was now sober and undergoing treatment, with an upcoming drug test to confirm his progress.
Stokes cooperated fully with authorities and is seeking leniency to avoid jail time.
Judge Grainne Malone adjourned the sentencing until 1 October to review his drug test results and consider the dangerous driving charges.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
