Man drove away without paying for petrol

A MAN who drove off without paying for petrol has 160 previous convictions.

Gareth Phelan (26), 40 Newmans Mill, Bridge St, Athboy, Meath, drove away from Esso in Kilmacanogue without paying for petrol on November 24, 2014.

Barriser Eoin Gallagher said that Phelan has paid €30 for the petrol taken. He said that most of the convictions date back to 2011 and 2012 and that his client has otherwise managed to stay out of trouble for some time.

He has engaged with restorative justice, probation services and a number of other agencies, including Focus Ireland. The court heard that Phelan is living in a hotel with a young family. Mr Gallagher said that a probation report is being prepared.

‘You have no choice but to deal harshly with this if the reports are not positive,’ said Mr Gallagher. Judge David Kennedy adjourned the matter to April 10.