Man returned to scene of attempted burglary in Dundalk without his face covered

A 26-year-old man who was linked to an attempted break-in after he returned to the scene just minutes later without his face covered, has been sentenced to six months at Dundalk district court.

John Keenan with an address at the time at St. Joseph's Homeless Aid, North Strand, Drogheda, who appeared before the court by video link, was charged with attempting to commit a burglary at Maxol, Dublin Road, Dundalk on August 20th 2024.

Court presenter Sgt Richie Browne outlined to the court last Wednesday how a man wearing black shorts and a black jacket was captured on CCTV entering the rear bin area around 4am, where he tried to open a back door.

He then opened an automatic door, but the shutters were pulled down and he was unable to gain entry.

Just minutes later he returned but this time his face was not covered and he was clearly identifiable as the defendant, who was arrested the next day when he was spotted wearing the same clothing.

John Keenan told gardaí that he was trying to access the shop “for somewhere to sleep”.

The defence solicitor said his client has been plagued with a drug addiction from a young age, and was addicted to crack cocaine, but he has been in custody since last August and his only future goal is to fight his addiction issues.

He added Mr Keenan looks a lot healthier now than he previously had and is serving a further 12 months after part of a suspended sentence for assault causing harm was reactivated by the Circuit Court last October.

He has a release date in July and must engage with the Probation service for 18 months post release and attend addiction services.

Judge Derek Cooney imposed a six month sentence, adding that with remission “that should not interfere with your release date”.