This article is from page 8 of the 2014-01-21 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 8 JPG
A TEENAGER has pleaded guilty to the robbery of a 73-year-old woman in Shannon.
The 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, entered the guilty plea after being arraigned at Ennis Circuit Criminal Court yesterday (Monday).
He admits stealing the woman’s handbag, which contained € 40 at the time. The charge relates to an incident at Tullyvarraga, Shannon, in July 2012.
Jurisdiction of the case was declined in the District Court after Judge Patrick Durcan heard details of the robbery.
The court heard woman was walking on the footpath when the accused came up behind her and grabbed the bag.
A Detective Garda gave evidence the victim gave chase but in doing so, fell and broke her pelvis.
A 17-year-old boy has already pleaded guilty to handling stolen property arising out of the same circumstances.
In court yesterday, Counsel for the 16 year old, Elaine Houlihan requested a probation report be prepared in respect of her client.
She said the court was required to seek probation reports where juveniles are concerned.
She said reporting restrictions also applied given her client’s age.
Judge Carol Moran asked if would have to consider the imposition of a prison sentence in respect of the robbery charge.
Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Stephen Coughlan BL, said, “When you hear the evidence in the case you may consider a prison sentence.”
Counsel for the 17-year-old boy, Pat Whyms said his client was charged with a handling offence.
He said there was no evidence linking the boy to the original robbery.
He said the court would not have to consider a prison sentence in respect of his client.
Judge Moran adjourned the cases for sentence to March 3.
He directed a probation report be prepared in respect of the 16-yearold boy.