11 hours ago
Drug addict admits stealing cash, whiskey and a TV from Louth pub
Nigel O'Brien, Beechwood Avenue, Marleys Lane, Drogheda, who has 69 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to a burglary charge.
The defendant has a serious drug addiction and is working towards getting residential treatment, his solicitor said.
Evidence was given that at 3.35am on September 17, 2024, Gardaí received an alarm notification of a break-in at the Railway Tavern, Dublin Road, Drogheda.
A float of €250 cash, two bottles of whiskey and a 32' television were stolen.
A 65' TV valued €2,500 was damaged beyond repair, while it cost €200 to fix a window.
Solicitor Paul Moore said that his client had a very serious drug addiction throughout his life.
With the help of The Red Door Project he had linked into a pre-entry programme in Coolmine and had an appointment there the next day with a view to getting residential treatment. This was Mr O'Brien's sole focus. His methadone intake had been reduced.
He was in a relationship with a partner who had come through addiction.
"You look very unwell standing in front of me. I hope tomorrow goes well for you,' Judge Nicola Andrews said to the defendant.
The case was adjourned to November 17 for a probation report and for Gardaí to canvass a Victim Impact Statement.
