Court hears Longford man's use of misplaced bank card to go on spending spree ‘is a matter of great shame for him'
A man who pleaded guilty to theft feels “great shame” after using a bank card he found five times without the permission of the owner will return before the court next November.
Ghoerghe Oprea (42) of 24 Grian Ard, Longford faced five charges stemming from a €139 spending spree on May 3, 2022. The defendant is charged with the theft at The Kiosk, Dublin Street Longford of €27.20 by tapping a bank card, €54.20 from Donlon's Shop, Dublin Street, Longford, €29.40 from Hughie Doyle's, Dublin Street, a further €26 from The Kiosk, and €2.20 for Kelleher's Spar, Main Street, Longford.
Judge Bernadette Owens was told the defendant was entering a plea of guilty to all the charges and that the DPP had consented to summary disposal of the matter.
Sergeant Mark Mahon said the incident arose when a man lost his bank card. Having found the item, Mr Oprea tapped it in five locations around Longford town. The total value of the transactions was €139. The defendant had €150 in compensation for the injured parties in court.
Sgt Mahon said Mr Oprea was very co-operative and had made full admissions about the incident. Solicitor Frank Geary said that it was a matter of extreme regret for the defendant.
Mr Gearty described it as “uncharacteristic behaviour” by his client. He said Mr Oprea had bought drinks with the bank card, and knows that he should not have done so.”
Mr Gearty said that the father of one had never been in court before and made a foolish decision.
“He has paid compensation. It is a matter of great shame for him and he promises that this will never happen again.”
Judge Bernadette Owens said she would put matters off for a long time to see if the defendant came to further Garda notice.
She adjourned the matter, remanding Mr Oprea on continuing bail, to November 28 next.
The judge said if the defendant was of good behaviour she would “take a certain course of action”.