Longford defendant who paid compensation is ‘staying out of bother’

A defendant who paid compensation to an injured party was given the benefit of the probation act at a sitting of Longford District Court.

Joe McDonnell (24) of Apartment 12 Crandaragh House, Dublin Road, Longford was charged with theft and criminal damage.

The charges against the defendant were that on October 30 2020 at Candara Pet Clinic, Dublin Rd, Longford he damaged the door of boiler house value €1,200 and on dates between January 1, 2020 and January 22, 2020 he stole a washing machine valued at €450, a television valued at €250, and a double bed valued at €300 the property of James Victory.

The court was told the defendant paid compensation to the injured party. Sgt Daly confirmed Mr McDonnell has not come to Garda attention since the offence.

Solicitor John Quinn said his client has learned his lesson: “He paid the compensation early and has stayed out of bother, and wants to continue to stay that way,” Mr Quinn said.

Noting the facts of the case Judge Bernadette Owens warned the defendant: “You have been given an opportunity today, you will not get another one.”

Judge Owens dismissed the matter under Section 1.1 of the Probation Act.