Cork judge recognises defendant who left scene after collision

29-year-old Jordan Van Ronn, with an address at 2 Coolnanave in Mitchelstown, was before Mallow District Court, charged with two separate charges in relation to an incident that took place on February 7, 2024.

The court heard that the complainant, Michelle O’Donovan, was stationary in her car when Mr Von Ronn reversed out of a space. Ms O’Donovan sounded her horn to alert the defendant to her presence, but he continued and hit her car.

There were no injuries, and the court heard that the two drivers spoke to each other, but Ms O’Donovan wasn’t comfortable swapping details, and instead she informed Mr Von Ronn that she would be contacting the Gardaí.

Ms O’Donovan then moved her car as it was obstructing traffic, but as she got in, Mr Von Ronn also got into his car and drove off. Ms O’Donovan took note of his registration plate and informed Gardaí, who subsequently contacted the 29-year-old.

The court was told that Mr Von Ronn had 14 previous convictions, 10 of those under the road traffic act.

Defence solicitor Cathal Lombard told Judge Colm Roberts that his client was fully insured at the time of the accident, and “had a lot going on in his life”.

“There’s a lot going on in his life for some time,” replied the Judge. “I’ve known you before I was a judge, is that right?”

“This is the last case, judge,” said Mr Von Ronn.

“You have enough convictions and therefore you need to avoid (more),” said the judge. “You’ve had enough breaks, and your luck is running out.

“You’re setting up a business, is that right?”

“That’s why I need to drive,” said the defendant.

Jordan Von Ronn was given two fines of €200, with two months to pay on charges of failing to remain at the scene, and failure to give appropriate information, following damage to property.