A man, with 45 previous convictions, who was caught pushing a shopping trolley containing stolen DIY goods, was given a three month suspended sentence at Galway District Court this week.
John McDonagh (44 ) who is now residing in Dublin but formerly of 60 Innishannagh Park, Newcastle, appeared before Judge Mary Fahy on Monday and pleaded guilty to stealing three Bosch powertools, total value €180, at Woodies DIY, Galway Retail Park, on December 10, 2010.
Inspector Ernie Whyte told the court that at 8pm the defendant, who was in an intoxicated state, was observed pushing a shopping trolley on the Headford Road. When stopped gardai found that the trolley contained three Bosch powertools which had been stolen from Woodies DIY earlier that day. McDonagh was arrested and charged but later failed to turn up to court and a bench warrant was issued. The court then heard that the defendant has 45 previous convictions including a two month sentence for threatening and abusive behaviour which he is currently serving. He also has previous for a number of theft offences.
Defence solicitor Valerie Corcoran said that her client has had a number of difficulties since suffering an injury to his head caused when he was hit with a brick, and that he began to drinking again.
After considering the evidence Judge Fahy convicted McDonagh and imposed the three month sentence which was suspended for a period of 12 months on condition that he enter into a bond of €300 to be of good behaviour.
