Kildare woman gets Probation Act for theft from 'favourite shop'
Photo for illustrative purposes only
“AH! From your favourite shop!” the judge shook his head at a repeat shoplifter when he saw the address of her latest offence for which she faced him.
Judge Desmond Zaidan was re-acquainting himself with Jessie Connell (29) from Castlepark, Athy.
Ms Connell has been regular visitor in Athy District Court in recent years.
This week (26 May) Connell appeared from custody as she is serving an unrelated sentence with a release date in December.
This time was for the theft of €100 worth of groceries from Dealz on Duke Street on 11 January, 2025.
“She has previous and post (convictions),” said Sergeant Dave Hanrahan.
“One hundred and eleven previous, 66 of which are for theft,” he added.
“Jessie is one of the people I won’t forget,” smiled the judge.
“She came before me in Naas about six months ago, the state opposed bail, but I refused and Jessie wasn’t happy.
“She then told her solicitor she crossed a county boundary and steal a bar of chocolate so she could get jailed to keep herself away from the illicit drugs that were killing you.
“Do you remember that?” asked the judge.
“No,” said Jessie.
“I must say in all this time I have never seen you look so well, you’re looking the healthiest I’ve seen you in 10 years.
“This is a huge improvement from seeing you at death’s door.
“It’s shocking and sad to see the price you paid.
“I will apply the Probation Act."
