Two men convicted for stealing more than €2k of cable reel in Limerick daytime theft

TWO MEN have been convicted of theft for stealing 21 reels of cable worth €2,100.

Barry and Patrick Ward, who are related by marriage, both appeared before Newcastle West District Court. 

Barry Ward (36) of Pairc Luachra, Abbeyfeale, pleaded guilty to the theft of the cable reels, which are used for the installation of solar panels. 

The court heard that the theft occurred at 4.45pm in the afternoon on August 29, 2025 and that it was captured on CCTV. 

He made admissions to the theft, but no property was recovered. 

Separately, gardaí on patrol on December 12, 2025, near Newcastle West observed a driver trying to cover his face as he passed gardaí. 

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When stopped by gardaí, it was discovered that Barry Ward did not have a driving licence and was driving without insurance - the vehicle was impounded. 

The court heard that Barry Ward has six previous convictions.

Solicitor Michael O'Donnell told the court his client is a father of six.

Inspector Gearóid Thompson, prosecuting for the State, told Judge Carol Anne Coolican that Barry Ward “was compliant and did not present any difficulties throughout the investigation.”

Judge Coolican imposed a fine of €500 giving him 12 months to pay, for driving with no insurance and she did not disqualify him from driving under special circumstances. 

For the theft, Barry Ward was sentenced to one month in prison, suspended for two years. 

Patrick Ward (53) of Pairc Luachra, Abbeyfeale, Barry Ward's father-in-law, also pleaded guilty to theft. 

The court heard he has no previous convictions and made full admissions, while the property was not recovered. 

Patrick Ward's solicitor Michael O'Donnell told the court that his client was “not in the best of health.” 

Judge Coolican convicted Patrick Ward and imposed a fine of €200, giving him six months to pay.