Former Republic of Ireland footballer Anthony Stokes has been sentenced to 15 months in prison following a high-speed car chase in Dublin and the discovery of nearly €4,000 worth of cocaine. The incident took place in January 2023 and also resulted in a five-year driving ban for the ex-Celtic and Sunderland player.
Dangerous Driving and Arrest
Stokes was driving at speeds of up to 160 km/h while over the alcohol limit when he was spotted by Gardaí shortly after midnight. Ignoring signals to stop, Stokes led officers on a dangerous pursuit through several Dublin streets, running multiple red lights and nearly causing a collision. The chase ended at the closed gates of Phoenix Park, where Stokes fled on foot but was soon apprehended. Cocaine, hidden inside a sock in the car’s air vent, was discovered during a subsequent search.
Jail Sentence and Driving Ban
Judge Grainne Malone delivered the 15-month sentence at Dublin District Court, noting the seriousness of the offences. In addition to the prison term, Stokes was handed a five-year driving ban. The court took into account his recent failed drug test, which showed traces of cocaine, despite a court-ordered treatment report aimed at proving his rehabilitation.
Release on Bail Pending Appeal
Despite the severity of the sentence, Stokes was released on appeal bail after paying €1,000. His defence solicitor, Lorraine Stephens, argued that Stokes, now 36, was struggling with addiction and mental health issues, which began during his football career. She requested that the court consider a community service order in light of his efforts to overcome these challenges.
Football Career and Personal Struggles
Stokes, once a promising footballer, had his career cut short by addiction issues. His rise to professional football at a young age, when he was scouted by Arsenal at just 14, led to struggles with alcohol, which later developed into a cocaine addiction after his football career ended. The court heard that Stokes had also experienced gambling problems, exacerbating his difficulties in managing his personal life.
Previous Convictions and Offences
In addition to the drug charges, Stokes had a prior conviction for assault in 2013, for which he received a suspended sentence. His latest offences included dangerous driving, breaking several red lights, and driving without insurance. Despite his reckless behavior, Gardaí involved in the arrest described him as cooperative during the incident.
Challenges After Football Career
Stokes’ struggles following the end of his football career were highlighted in court, where it was revealed that he had been featured in a documentary about the mental health difficulties faced by young footballers. His defence noted that the transition from a professional sports career into ordinary life had been particularly challenging for him, leading to his reliance on alcohol and drugs.
