
Thief had money problems linked to communions and confirmations, court hears
The defence solicitor said Sandra Byrne had financial difficulties at the time, due to a number of communion and confirmation celebrations.
A shoplifter who stole cosmetics was in financial difficulties at the time due to holy communion and confirmation celebrations, a court has heard.
Sandra Byrne (55) was stopped by security staff as she walked out of Boots with a bagful of goods.
Judge David McHugh ordered Byrne to donate €80 to Blanchardstown Hospice and said he would leave her without a conviction.
Stock photo
Today's News in 90 Seconds - June 12 2025
The defendant, with addresses at Temple Street West and Mountjoy Street, both Dublin 7, admitted stealing cosmetics, worth €630, from Boots, Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, on May 20, 2025.
Sergeant Maria Callaghan told Blanchardstown District Court that Byrne put a number of cosmetic products in a bag and tried to leave the store, but she was stopped and detained by security staff.
Sgt Callaghan said the goods were recovered in a resalable condition.
Defence solicitor Eoghan O'Sullivan said Byrne, who was not working, took the goods in a 'moment of madness'. He said Byrne had financial difficulties at the time, due to a number of communion and confirmation celebrations.
He said Byrne was holding her hands up, did not want to take up court time, and wished to apologise for her behaviour.
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