Ex-Celtic footballer Anthony Stokes has had his jail sentence overturned on appeal after a cocaine seizure and high-speed car chase in Dublin. The former Celtic and Republic of Ireland player, who was found to be over the alcohol limit, was caught driving at speeds over 95mph and nearly colliding with another vehicle shortly after midnight on January 6, 2023. Gardai discovered €3,700 worth of cocaine in Stokes’ 2014-reg Volkswagen Golf. Initially, Stokes was handed a 15-month sentence and a five-year road ban at Dublin District Court on October 8. However, he was released to appeal the sentence and on Thursday, Judge Jonathan Dunphy overturned the jail term, citing “exceptional circumstances” and noting that Stokes was now drug-free.
During the appeal, it was revealed that Stokes struggled with drug addiction following his retirement from professional football. The judge commended Stokes for his progress and potential, opting to suspend the prison term entirely. Instead, Stokes was ordered to complete 240 hours of community service, placed under probation supervision, and warned that any breach of the order would result in a significant sentence. Stokes pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine, driving while over the alcohol limit, and multiple counts of dangerous driving during the pursuit.
Stokes’ lawyer highlighted the difficulties he faced after retiring from football and the development of a cocaine addiction. Stokes, who had a prior assault conviction, has been working to address his issues, including receiving support for his drinking problem and undergoing residential treatment for his drug addiction. Judge Dunphy acknowledged Stokes’ efforts but emphasised that there was still a long way to go in his rehabilitation process.
The court heard details of the high-speed chase conducted by Stokes, during which he drove recklessly and reached speeds up to 160km/h. Cocaine was found hidden in his car, and he tested positive for alcohol above the legal limit. Despite these actions, Stokes was described as cooperative during the arrest. Stokes’ appeal was successful, with the judge imposing strict conditions for his release, including community service and probation supervision.
In summary, Anthony Stokes, a former professional footballer, has successfully appealed his jail sentence for drug possession and dangerous driving charges in Dublin. Despite his past struggles with addiction, Stokes has shown progress in addressing his issues and is now focused on rehabilitation and community service under court supervision. Stokes’ case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by professional athletes after retirement and the importance of seeking help for mental health and addiction issues.