Laois vet practice ends ‘open door’ policy after crime
Man before Portlaoise District Court over the incident
A court heard a Laois veterinary practice has ended its open door policy in the wake of a crime.
Francis Tuohy, 22, of Dysart Beg, Mountrath is accused of entering Portrane House, Stradbally Road, Portlaoise and stealing a coin box with €200 inside on July 17, 2023.
Detective Garda Padraic Ryan explained that a couple live in the house and the woman's brother runs a veterinary practice from the same building.
He said there would have been an “open door policy” where people could just walk in if there was an emergency with an injured animal.
Det Ryan explained that on July 17, the defendant had “rooted around the offices, took a money tin with €200 inside.” The defendant was confronted by the injured party, said Det Ryan.
“As a result of this burglary there has been a sea change for the individuals,” said Det Ryan.
“They no longer have an open house,” he explained. Det Ryan said the victims of the crime are aged in their 70s.
Suzanne Dooner BL said her client had brought a sum of €250 to court.
Judge Nicola Andrews remanded the matter back to Portlaoise District Court on May 21 for finalisation.