A DEFENDANT with 99 previous convictions was found in possession of a pair of snips which, it is alleged, he used to cut the security tags off items during a shoplifting spree in the city over the weekend.
Gardaí objected strongly to him being granted bail when he came before Galway Court on Monday, arguing that 85% of his previous convictions had occurred while he was out on bail.
Gardaí also expressed concern over where the defendant would live as they wanted to keep him out of the city.
Defending solr Sean Acton pleaded that his client, Oisín Reilly, would, if granted bail, live with his mother at Glencorrib, Shrule.
This led to a debate over which Garda station Reilly would sign-on daily as part of his bail conditions. Tuam Garda Station, the Court was told, was the most convenient, public transport-wise, but Claremorris was nearer.
Reilly pleaded that he would have to hitch lifts and this could take all day coming and going to sign-on, asking if this aspect could be reduced to three days a week. Garda Sgt Christy Brown dismissed this request.
“I’ll be sitting on the side of the road”
“I’ll be sitting on the side of the road,” he complained. Judge Lydon said he was well able to hitch into Galway to commit alleged thefts, so he could hitch to Claremorris every day instead.
She also made it a condition that he attend his GP in Headford as soon as he got out on bail and gave permission for his GP to let Gardaí know of his rehabilitation efforts.
Sgt Brown said he objected to any bail being given on the grounds of the defendant’s previous criminal history and the likelihood of his reoffending if he was released from custody.
Reilly and a co-accused, Amy Walsh, Knocknacarra, were arrested over the weekend and charged with stealing items from Brown Thomas and Sports Direct. The items were valued at €543, €143 and €400.
Gardaí were alerted and caught up with the pair at the Headford Road Shopping Centre. When they were challenged they attempted to flee and were detained and arrested and appeared in custody before the Court on Monday.
The defence pleaded that Reilly had serious addiction issues and was waiting for a place in St Francis’ Farm rehab facility in Carlow. He pledged to live with his disabled mother in Glencorrib while on bail.
“Once I get something in me, my brain goes,” Reilly told Judge Lydon. He said he understood the concept of bail but Sgt Brown pointed out that he had broken this concept on 85 occasions in the past.
Reilly assured the Judge that she would never see him again and he had a job offer from Barna Recycling.
It was decided to grant bail on strict conditions: that he produce proof of his rehab placement, his job offer, and that he was engaging with rehabilitation services.
Sgt Brown said Garda conditions included staying out of Galway city, be of sober habits and keep a curfew in Glencorrib.
Wool over eyes
“If you’re pulling the wool over this Judge’s eyes I’ll revoke bail,” Judge Lydon warned him.
Reilly’s partner and co-accused Amy Walsh has 51 previous convictions, 13 for theft. 21 of her previous convictions occurred while she was on bail. Gardaí also strongly objected to her bail.
Sean Acton, defending, pleaded she was a mother of three and had addiction issues.
He said she wanted to move “lock and stock” to Shrule with her boyfriend if bail was granted but Sgt Brown said “no, I’m afraid not,” explaining he was concerned over her record. Mr Acton said Reilly’s mother had been in contact and said Walsh was welcome in her Glencorrib home.
Walsh’s mother appeared in Court and bail conditions were firmed up. Walsh must also sign on daily in Claremorris, stay out of Galway except for Court and medical appointments and observe a curfew.
“Keep an eye on your daughter if you can,” the Judge asked her mother and adjourned matters until the November 9 sitting.
