Woman admits criminal damage charge after breaking into a property she thought was empty

Cherish Devine (29) of no fixed abode was charged with the offence that occurred on June 30

A woman has appeared at Derry Magistrates Court charged with criminal damage after breaking into a property she thought was empty.

Cherish Devine (29) of no fixed abode was charged with the offence that occurred on June 30.

Defence Barrister Stephen Mooney said that Devine was 'effectively seeking shelter' after being kicked out of her accommodation and didn't realize the property was occupied.

He added that she had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity.

Devine had previously appeared in court on June 20 on charges of criminal damage and common assault and had been given a two month suspended sentence.

For the latest offence, District Judge Ted Magill gave her a sentence of two months in custody to be served consecutively with the previous suspended sentence.