A married mother of seven was before Ballina District Court on Tuesday for unlawfully interfering with an electricity meter.
An ESB technician called to the home of Bridget McDonagh, 58 Ardnaree, Ballina on July 22 2011 to take a reading from the meter. The technician noticed that a hole was drilled in the meter.
ESB readings had dropped from an average daily use of around 17 units to just three units.
An invoice was sent out to McDonagh for €192—the price of a replacement meter. The full amount was paid by her. The defendant has also paid €100 arrears and continues to pay €25 a week.
Judge Mary Devins convicted and fined her €100.
