Man who burgled Laois vet practice now at a crossroads

A man who burgled a veterinary practice was warned he was at a crossroads in his life and would need to make a choice. 

Francis Tuohy (23) with addresses at 4 Old Forge Crescent, Mountrath and Dysart Beg, Mountrath was accused of stealing a tin with €200 in cash during a burglary at Portrane House in Portlaoise on July 17 last year. 

He was also accused of possession of cannabis, obstruction and engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour at Newline Road, Mountrath on May 20, 2024. 

He was further accused of engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour and causing criminal damage to a white van on Patrick Street, Mountrath on June 27, 2023 and being intoxicated and engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour at the Accident and Emergency department of the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise on July 18, 2023. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said the man had been moving between accommodation but had now secured a home in Mountrath. 

She said the probation services had made a recommendation for the man who she said was immature for his age. She said the man had the support of his mother who had driven him to court. 

Judge Susan Fay asked Ms Fitzpatrick to explain the consequences of breaching the probation bond.

“You are at a crossroads now. There are two roads you can go down,” she told the man. 

Judge Fay told the man that he needed to give himself the best chance by working with experts. 

“When you are out with someone and they offer you something, that’s when you choose your roads,” she warned the man. 

Judge Fay placed him on an 18 month probation bond with strict conditions which included that he engage with mental health services, abstain from drugs and attend with drug treatment services.