A cash-strapped man who was caught swapping the price tags on a frying pan was advised by an amused judge to “use the grill next time”.
Dara Molloy (22 ) now living in Bohermore but with a previous address given as Garrai De Bruin, Fort Lorenzo, Salthill, pleaded guilty to deception by inducing staff at TK Maxx to accept payment of €9.99 for a frying pan that was priced €39.99, by changing price tags on October 8, 2009.
Inspector Ernie White told the court that at 4pm at TK Maxx the defendant was caught changing price tags on a frying pan. He added that Molloy has no previous convictions.
“What were you going to do with the pan?” asked Judge Mary Fahy, to which Molloy replied that he had gone in to buy stuff but had been broke at the time.
“You know that fried goods are not even good for you,” quipped Judge Fahy.
Molloy, originally from Roscommon, said that rent in Galway was very expensive. Judge Fahy then pointed out that pans are usually supplied in rented accommodation, however, Molloy said he just wanted a new one.
When Judge Fahy enquired about an adult caution, Inspector White said that Molloy had previously received one.
“I was caught for drinking,” said Molloy who added that he shouldn’t have changed the tags on the pan.
Judge Fahy concluded that a conviction would be disproportionate and that she would give him a chance. She then remanded Molloy on continuing bail to June 28 for the preparation of a garda behaviour report and, if it is good, then she would want €100 to be paid to the Garda Benevolent Fund.
