A 35-year-old mother of four children who was given a suspended sentence by a judge in April last year was before a court just a month later for another theft offence, Trim District Court was told. Christine McDonagh, Tailteann Drive, Navan appeared at the court on charges of theft from local stores involving a total sum of €623.
She stole clothing valued €184 from Sports Direct at Navan Town Centre on 28 th May last; groceries valued €64 from Tesco, Navan Shopping Centre on 11 th May last; clothing valued €248 from Penneys at the centre on 7 th August last; items valued €12.30 at Hannons Centra, Commons Road, Navan on 3 rd September last; electrical items and groceries from Choice, Navan Town Centre on 7 th December 2024.
The court was told that defendant had 12 previous convictions, mainly for theft. Defending barrister Paul Noctor said that his client had difficulties with her mental health. Judge Eirinn McKiernan said “She got a suspended sentence on 15 th April 2025 but she was back in court one month later”. Mr Noctor said his client was trying to get her life in order and asked for some time to allow her pay compensation.
Defendant said “If you’re planning to put me away I need help with my mental health. I’m not a bad person”. The judge ordered preparation of a probation report for 15 th March next and told defendant “You’re getting a chance. If you miss one appointment with the Probation Service you’ll be back where you are now. I want compensation paid by that date.”
