Man fined in Longford court for stealing iPhone from retail worker

A man who took an iPhone 15 from a store employee one year ago, has been convicted and fined.

Marcin Baldyga, 6 Abhainn Glas, Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to a charge of theft.

At a previous hearing, the court heard that, on April 19, 2024, at approximately 8.45pm, the injured party left her phone on a table while she went about cleaning duties at her place of employment.

Also read: Longford defendant receives a six-month suspended sentence for violent disorder

When she returned, the phone was missing.

She checked CCTV and saw a man take the phone from the table.

Gardaí identified Mr Baldyga, who handed over the phone when requested.

Also read: Longford Motorist receives nine months in jail following drug driving incident

There was no loss or damage to the phone.

The accused has 30 previous convictions, two of which were for theft.

Sgt Mark Mahon said the defendant had not come to any further Garda attention.

Also read: Wedding Bells: Marriage celebrations as Longford couples say ‘I do’

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client is currently unemployed and he cares for his four children.

Judge Bernadette Owens noted the phone had been handed back and there had been no damage and she subsequently imposed a fine of €300 with six months to pay.

Also read: Longford man appointed as new CEO of Animal Health Ireland