Woman avoids conviction for cocaine in Portlaoise

A woman who was caught with cocaine in Portlaoise was given the probation act. 

Paula Kelly, 38, of 19 Colliers Court, Portlaoise admitted having cocaine valued at €320 at Colliers Court on November 1 last. 

Sgt JJ Kirby said the defendant had no previous convictions and had cooperated fully. 

Judge Michelle Finan applied the probation act on condition the woman donate €200 to St Vincent de Paul. The money was donated during the sitting of Portlaoise District Court.  

“I am going to apply the probation act,” said Judge Finan, who warned, “be careful in future.”