Expectant mother back in court for theft offences
The defendant pleaded guilty at Castlebar District Court.
A woman who stole more than €200 worth of goods from two retail outlets in Castlebar has been fined.
Barbara McDonagh, aged 21, of 20 Fountain Court, Tralee, Co Kerry, pleaded guilty at Castlebar District Court to two separate theft offences at Dunnes Stores and TK Maxx in August 2023.
Sgt Conor McShane said the defendant entered Dunnes Stores in Castlebar on August 9, 2023, and stole items valued at €22. On August 22, McDonagh walked into TK Maxx and stole black and navy puffer jackets valued at €200.
Sgt McShane said the jackets were recovered but the items from Dunnes Stores were not returned. McDonagh has several previous convictions, including four for theft offences. A two-month suspended jail term, imposed in June 2023 for an offence in 2022, may now be reactivated.
Solicitor Cathy McDarby said McDonagh has since married and is expecting her first child.
“My client’s husband is with her supporting her in court,” she said. “She is quite easily led and is trying to stay away from some influences that got her into trouble.
Judge Vincent Deane imposed a €200 fine and adjourned the issue of the previous suspended jail term until January 17 next.
