UPDATE: 22-month custodial sentence for Kildare Village shoplifter
CONVICTED
Two 11-month custodial sentences (22 months in total) were imposed on a Dublin resident for shoplifting offences he committed in the Kildare Village retail Outlet.
Last year, it was heard at Naas District Court that Llir Lapraku, with an address listed as 98 Hillview Grove, Ballinteer, Dublin 16, pleaded guilty to stealing a number of items worth around €4,297 from a number of shops at Kildare Village on April 4, 2022.
It was heard that all of the items stolen by the 45-year-old were recovered, and Mr Lapraku’s solicitor, Brian Larkin, pointed out that his client has no previous convictions.
However, on the latest date (Thursday, June 22), it was heard that Mr Lapraku had 17 previous convictions: all for road traffic offences, but none for any theft offences.
Defending barrister Mark Gibbons said that Mr Lapraku had acted on impulse, due to the recent death of his father, in addition to consuming pain medication, 'which resulted in his state of mind (on April 4, 2022).'
Mr Gibbons added that Mr Lapraky was 'embarrased and regretful' over his actions.
He added that his client had put forward a €3,000 donation as gesture of his remorse, but Judge Zaidan questioned this, saying: "I understand that you are doing your best for him, but if you can come up with that amount of money, why steal in the first place?"
After consideration, Judge Zaidan said that he would convict Mr Lapraku.
He said that while he accepted Mr Lapraku's guilty plea, his €3,000 donation, and the fact that all the items were recovered, he nevertheless maintained that 'a deterrent must be sent out for this type of behaviour,' echoing his comments on the first court date.
The judge imposed two 11-month sentences on Mr Lapraku, in addition to a €500 fine.
Judge Zaidan also pointed out that one item Mr Lapraku stole, a watch, was worth €2,994.60 alone.