This article is from page 18 of the 2006-07-18 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
A JUDGE has stated that the theft of a mobile phone is a “serious matter”.
Judge Joseph Mangan made the remark while jailing for two weeks, Alan Kerin (22), of Church Drive Clarecastle.
He admitted stealing a mobile phone, valued at €250, from a takeaway on October 18, 2005.
Ennis District Court heard that the accused went into the chipshop, put his hand over the counter and took the phone.
Defending solicitor Tara Godfrey said her client had been before the court earlier this year, in connection with a number of offences between May and November 2005.
On that occasion a 20-month sentence was imposed, after her client pleaded guilty to a string of offences.
“There was an effort to have all the offences brought before you together en block.
“We would ask you to consider taking this summons into consideration with the other summonses,” said Ms Godfrey.
Judge Joseph Mangan replied, “In normal circumstances, I would have every sympathy with what you are saying.
“A man who pleads guilty is entitled to credit. However the theft of a mobile phone is such a serious matter in my view, I cannot fully accede to your request.”
He added that he would go “some way” to meet the request and imposed a two-week jail term on the accused.