Woman ‘faithfully promises not to do this kind of thing again’ in Longford District Court

A defendant whose “life has been a battle” will return before Judge Bernadette Owens next May.

Kathleen McDonagh (50) of 35 Cois Abhainn, Turlough Avenue, Castlebar, Mayo was charged with two thefts. Both were from Supervalu, Hazelwood Shopping Centre, Longford.

The first on June 21, 2021 related to cosmetics valued at €29.10, the second from August 1, 2021 was household items valued €19.83.
The defendant elected to have the matter heard in the District Court. Sergeant Enda Daly said security at the supermarket contacted Longford Gardai regarding an incident in which the defendant took three items and past all points of payment without paying last June.

In the second incident Ms McDonagh was observed on CCTV putting items in a black handbag and leaving the store.

The court was told the defendant has 28 previous convictions; including driving without insurance, public order, road traffic and one for theft.
Solicitor Frank Geary said his client believed that the thefts may have been rooted in depression. He said that the only previous theft conviction was from many years ago.

Mr Gearty said the defendant lost her husband shortly after the birth of her sixth child and she raised her family on her own: “Life has been a battle for her,” the solicitor said.

Mr Gearty pointed out that Ms McDonagh paid compensation to the injured parties: “She has faithfully promised not to do this kind of thing again in Longford, or anywhere else for that matter.”

Judge Owens said she would put the matter back to see if Ms McDonagh comes to any unfavourable attention. The matter was adjourned to May 16, 2023.