Woman stole from two Ballina stores
Judge Brendan O'Reilly said the taxpayer was suffering as a result of the defendant's repeat offending.
A woman who stole from two Ballina shops must undertake community service.
Geraldine Kilcullen, of 26 The Dunes, Enniscrone, pleaded guilty at Ballina District Court to three counts of theft.
The court previously heard that on March 2, 2022, Kilcullen entered Tesco in Ballina and stole a variety of products to the value of €72.53. This property was recovered in a resaleable condition.
The defendant entered Casey’s Londis in Ballina on March 23 and April 6, 2022, and stole alcoholic drinks to the value of €227.95 and €202.95 respectively. In both instances, the property was not recovered.
Kilcullen has 51 previous convictions.
Solicitor Denis Molloy said all the compensation had been paid.
Judge Brendan O'Reilly asked whether Kilcullen had an issue with alcohol but Mr Molloy said she did not drink.
"She was taken advantage of by sinister individuals," he said. "A description from the shop owner is enough for [the Gardaí] to know who to go to."
Mr Molloy said his client, who receives a disability allowance, had immediately pleaded guilty and made full admissions.
Judge O'Reilly said the taxpayer was suffering as a result of Kilcullen's repeat offending. He imposed 180 hours of community service in lieu of six months imprisonment.
