Man ordered to stay out of shops in Portlaoise

A man was ordered to stay out of all shops in Portlaoise with two exceptions. 

Kevin Hourigan (36) of 37 O’Moore Place, Portlaoise is accused of stealing clothing valued at €455 from Lifestyle Sports, Laois Shopping Centre on February 5 last and clothing valued at €245 from the same shop on February 3. He is accused of stealing Nike Air cargo pants and a Nike Air hoodie worth €140 from the shop on February 8. 

It’s alleged he stole clothing valued at €96 from Lifestyle Sports on March 10 and took Under Armour pants and a Nike top valued at €125 from the shop on March 11 when it’s alleged he also took three pairs of Under Armour trousers valued at €150. 

He is further accused of stealing perfume valued at €55 from TK Maax, Kyle Centre, Portlaoise on March 8 and taking Nike footwear valued at €90 from Sports Direct in Portlaoise. 

Garda Lisa Murray requested that his bail include a condition that he stay out of all retail stores except those that sell groceries. 

“He can go wherever he gets his methadone and grocery stores,” she said.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby acknowledged the defendant’s presumption of innocence but said that he would like the cases brought to the higher circuit court due to “the multiplicity” of the charges. He said he would bring the matter to the attention of his Superintendent. 

“I have a duty and the guards have a duty to protect the retailers of Portlaoise,” said Sgt Kirby. 

He asked that the man be excluded from all shops except one local grocery shop and a chemist. 

Judge Susan Fay agreed to impose the bail conditions and she barred him from all shops except the Hooda store in Esker Hills and the Chemco Chemist in Portlaoise. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was in receipt of supplementary welfare allowance. She requested legal aid which was granted.

Judge Fay remanded the defendant on bail and adjourned the case to Portlaoise District Court on April 14 for directions.