‘You should know better’: Leitrim judge scolds 20-year-old over shop theft

A Mohill man with nine previous convictions has been fined for stealing alcohol from a local shop after what his solicitor described as “an act of sheer stupidity.” Michael McDonagh (21), of 27 Treanmore, Mohill, appeared before Judge Éiteáin
Cunningham at Carrick-on-Shannon District Court charged with theft under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001.

The court heard Gardaí were called after McDonagh was seen taking bottles of alcohol from a shop in Carrick-on-Shannon and leaving without paying. He was later identified through CCTV footage and made full admissions when questioned.
Prosecuting Garda evidence outlined that McDonagh cooperated fully with officers and expressed remorse during the interview.

Defence solicitor Martin Burke told the court his client was a “young man who made a stupid mistake.” “He knows it was wrong,” Mr Burke said. “He’s had issues with alcohol in the past but is trying to address them. He’s not making excuses — just asking the court to give him a chance to get back on track.”

The court heard McDonagh has nine previous convictions, mostly for minor public order and theft offences. Judge Éiteáin Cunningham described the theft as “foolish behaviour from someone who should know better,” but noted his cooperation and guilty plea. “At 20 years of age, you’re old enough to start making proper decisions,” she told him. “You can’t keep coming before the court blaming drink or bad luck.” McDonagh was convicted and fined €300, with five months to pay.

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