Eight-month sentence imposed for eight car thefts committed in County Kildare
CONVICTION
An eight-month custodial sentence was imposed on a man for eight different car theft offences.
Niall Gill, with an address listed as Courtown Park in Kilcock, but who is currently remanded in custody, pleaded guilty to all eight offences when he appeared at Naas District Court on Thursday, November 2 last.
Presiding Judge Philip O'Leary was told by gardaí that on October 9 last, the 27-year-old committed the offences at Chamber’s Park in Kilcock.
Gardaí added that they found Mr Gill in the driver’s seat of one of the cars.
A brief foot chase ensued, but Mr Gill was eventually apprehended by gardaí.
It was heard that the total value of the items stolen was €4,000.
Although Judge O'Leary said that he would initially refuse jurisdiction, he changed his mind after he was told by defending solicitor David Powderly that all the items were recovered, and that no violence was used.
When Mr Powderly also pointed out that all of the cars were unlocked, and that his client therefore did not need to break into any of them, the judge replied: "They’re very trusting in Kilcock, aren’t they?"
Judge O'Leary was told by gardaí that Mr Gill has a total of 103 previous convictions, with the last conviction being imposed back in July for a public disorder offence.
One garda present in court also mentioned that he has 14 previous convictions for theft.
Mr Powderly told the judge that his client has substance abuse issues.
He also said that on the date in question, he suffered a relapse, and stressed that he has 'little memory' of committing the offences.
"There was no force or violence used, it was just opportunistic," Mr Powderly added.
He also pointed out that his client intends to return to work, to support his young child, and that he submitted guilty pleas to all of the theft offences.
After consideration, Judge O'Leary sentenced Mr Gill to eight months in custody for the offences.
He backdated this sentence to October 12, which is when Mr Gill first entered into custody, and fixed recognisances at €200.
Mr Gill thanked Judge O'Leary after he delivered his verdict.