Judge gives Longford man who stole alcohol and endured 'traumatic' period an opportunity

A Longford man who stole alcohol from a supermarket has been given an opportunity by a judge after she heard about his 'traumatic' recent past.

Desmond Forde of 26 Auburn Court, Harbour Row, Longford pleaded guilty to stealing two eight packs of Guinness cans on August 3 last.

Sgt Shane Kelleher said the defendant entered the off-licence area of the Dunnes Stores in Longford on August 3 at 10.10am and he took an eight-pack of Guinness cans valued at €33.40 and he left the shop passing all points of payment.
The alochol was not recovered.

Mr Forde entered the same supermarket again and he picked up a second eight pack of Guinness cans and he left at 3.40pm without making any attempt to pay.

The defendant was stopped by security guards on that occasion and the alcohol was recovered on that occasion.

The court heard Mr Forde had four previous convictions.

Solicitor Bríd Mimnagh said her client had 'simply turned to drink' after he suffered a number of family bereavements within a short period of time.

Ms Mimnagh stated Mr Forde's eight year-old son and his sister had died within a short period.

"He has a letter here to explain that and he never stole in his life before."

The defendant handed in some money to cover the cost of the cans of Guinness and Ms Mimnagh appealed to Judge Bernadette Owens for leniency for her client.

"He is four years living in Longford, he has never been in any sort of trouble since that and he had a very traumatic incidents in his life in recent times."

Judge Owens noted the facts and that the defendant had no prior theft convictions and she said she would give him 'one opportunity'.

"I think having a conviction recorded for theft matters that may possibly have a significant impact on your client if he is seeking employment."

Judge Owens decided to strike out the two charges but warned Mr Forde this would be his only chance and he would not benefit from that opportunity again.

READ NEXT: WRC order Longford-based business to pay €7,500 compensation to former employee

READ NEXT: Longford residents urged to check voter registration before key deadlines