'Criminals are everywhere' - Pickpocket steals from elderly woman asleep in Irish hospital

Criminals are everywhere, said Sergeant Ber Leetch, crime prevention officer based in Henry Street garda station.

One example the sergeant gave was of an elderly woman asleep in hospital.

"A woman in her sixties was in University Hospital Limerick. She had some cash in the pocket of her jacket while she was in the emergency department. This was stolen from her when she fell asleep," said Sgt Leetch.

Criminals are everywhere and "always looking for a chance to steal from us", she said.

"Do not give them the chance. Keep your cash, bankcards and phone on your person at all times," advised Sgt Leetch.