Deeper issues "needs to be addressed" before charges against Longford defendant are concluded
The defendant is facing two "minor" charges which are the theft of eight cans of Bulmers and a block of ice cream valued at €18.19
A defendant facing two “minor” charges that “indicates a deeper issue that needs to be addressed” will be assessed by probation services before the charges against her are concluded.
Serena Hoare (47) of 1 Main St, Lanesboro, was charged with the theft of eight cans of Bulmers and block of ice cream valued at €18.19 from SuperValu Lanesboro on July 21, 2023 and the unlawful possession cocaine on June 3, 2024 at Ardnacassa, Longford.
Solicitor Frank Gearty indicated his client was entering a plea of guilty to the possession charge.
Outlining the details of the drug possession charge Sergeant Enda Daly said the defendant was observed acting suspicious in an area known for the sale and supply of drugs.
Ms Hoare was stopped and searched and found to have cocaine to the value of €40.
The defendant had one previous conviction for theft. Mr Gearty told the court that the property in the July '23 matter was recovered.
He explained that the mother of four grown daughters had never been arrested prior to the '24 offence.
“Serena lost the run of herself,” Mr Gearty explained, he described a turbulent time, when his client's partner was in hospital and received a poor prognosis.
“She bitterly regrets what she has done,” the legal representative said.
Mr Gearty said Ms Hoare had spent two weeks in custody, which she found “shocking” and now “understands the consequence of the actions”.
The solicitor said: “She would appreciate the opportunity to retain her liberty and has learned a big lesson.”
Judge Bernadette Owens noted that the charges were “minor”, but said they “indicates a deeper issue that needs to be addressed”.
Having directed that Ms Hoare engage with probation services Judge Owens remanded the defendant on bail to return before the court on July 1 next at which time a probation report will be prepared and the judge will conclude matters .