Dundalk man sentenced for a series of shoplifting offences

A 21-year-old man charged with a series of shoplifting offences was told at Dundalk district court last week "it's time to shape-up now - there is a future for you" after he was sentenced to a total of six months.

Judge Stephanie Coggans also told Nathan Keenan with addresses at Belfry Drive, St. Alphonsus Road, Dundalk and Dundalk Simon Community "everybody has given you every opportunity" - the Probation Service and the court and stressed "at the end of the day you have a negative and challenging attitude and won't take responsibility for your actions."

He admitted 12 charges, six relating to thefts from shops, and public order offences, loitering and unlawful possession of “nominal values” of drugs.

Mr. Keenan, who appeared in custody, further pleaded guilty to getting into a car parked in a driveway at Mountain View, Point Road without the consent of September 3rd last year although the court heard no property was taken from the vehicle.

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The Defence barrister said his client is likeable when sober and while he is "a nuisance" the offending did not involve “extreme use of violence” and he added that Mr Keenan's father will put in place structures if he becomes clean of drugs.

Judge Coggans said she was struck by the contents of the Probation report before her saying it is considered and hopeful and she had carefully read the letter from the defendant's father which had been handed into the court.

The judge said "I want you to have the best life" but added "we are done now. I gave you every opportunity".

Sentencing him to two consecutive three month jail terms, Judge Coggans marked the other charges taken into consideration and added "I take no pleasure in it." He also recommended ongoing psychiatric treatment.