Man Arrested in Driving Test Fraud Investigation
Dublin: A man has been arrested and charged in connection with a Garda investigation into fraudulent driving theory test activities. The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau is conducting the investigation following the discovery of forged driver permits and exam fraud.
Andre Contagariu (26), of Castlecurragh Park, Dublin 15, was detained after allegedly attempting to sit a driving theory test on behalf of another individual. He now faces two counts of conspiracy to defraud, with offences alleged to have occurred between September 14, 2018, and June 29, 2021.
Contagariu, a married father of two, is accused of using Ireland’s computer network systems to unlawfully obtain driver theory test pass certificates for third parties. The charges, brought under relevant sections of the Criminal Justice Act, carry a maximum penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment upon conviction.
Due to the seriousness of the charges, bail may only be granted by the High Court. Similar offences have previously resulted in custodial sentences for other individuals.
Contagariu appeared before Judge John Hughes at Dublin District Court, where he was formally charged and remanded into Garda custody. He is scheduled to appear again at Cloverhill District Court on Thursday, July 3, when directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) are expected.
It remains to be determined whether the case will proceed in the District Court or be escalated to the Circuit Criminal Court, which has jurisdiction over more serious offences.
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