Young mother admits thefts

A mother of a seven-month-old baby has been remanded on continuing bail for a community service report after she pleaded guilty to a number of shoplifting charges.

It was stated on behalf of Melissa McDonagh (20), Mullaharlin Park, Dublin Road, that she was in an unstable relationship at the time and was being influenced to carry out the thefts.

Evidence was give that on 24 October, 2017, in Tesco Extra, she filled a bag with ‘Fast And Furious 8’ DVDs and left without paying. The items were not recovered.

On 18 January, 2018, she went in to Centra, Main Street, Blackrock, and took groceries worth €60.47.

Eight days later, in Penney’s, Marshes shopping centre, McDonagh concealed ear-rings and nail varnish in her bra. She left the store and was stopped outside.

Solicitor Paula Tiernan said her client is from a Traveller background.

There had been no trouble recently as she had gotten her act together.

The defendant had a baby which made her reflect on her past. She is more stable now that she has someone to look after.

Ms Tiernan added McDonagh had stopped carrying out acts such as these. She didn’t want to be taken away from her child, and would compensate if given time.

Judge McKiernan remarked she had two years (to get compensation) but instead took hearing dates.

‘What about the victims? None have been compensated. The only thing to her credit is that she has not come to garda attention since January, 2018.’

The judge continued that the defendant was ‘severely at risk’ and ‘couldn’t have it every way’.

After the matter was let stand in the list, Melissa McDonagh was remanded on continuing bail to 15 January next for a community service report.