This article is from page 32 of the 2014-05-20 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 32 JPG
A LIMERICK man has pleaded guilty to handling stolen property in Magowna last May.
Darra Moore (23) admitted handling stolen property including four pairs of sunglasses, a harmonica, sunglasses and kodak digital camera on dates unknown between May 22 and May 23 in Magowna.
Mr Moore, with an address at Cosgrave Park, Moyross, Limerick, appeared before Ennis District Court on Wednesday.
Inspector Tom Kennedy told the court the property was stolen form an unlocked car outside a house between the dates in question.
A follow up investigation found that Mr Moore was in the area at the time.
The property was recovered and Mr Moore was charged with handling the stolen items.
The court heard Mr Moore has 76 previous convictions including for theft and handling offences.
Defence solicitor Daragh Hassett said his client fully cooperated with gardaí and took responsibility for all of the items recovered.
Mr Hassett said the offence was committed at a time when Mr Moore was taking drugs.
He said the accused is now dealing with his addictions and is genuinely remorseful for his actions.
The court heard Mr Moore is currently serving a prison sentence and is due for release in December.
Judge Patrick Durcan asked Insp Kennedy if anything could be gained by adding to Mr Moore’s prison sentence.
Insp Kennedy said the point had to be made that Mr Moore is a “serial offender” who shows no regard for other people’s property.
He said society could not tolerate persistent criminal behaviour such as this.
Judge Durcan imposed a three month prison sentence but told Mr Moore this would not extend his time in prison beyond December when he is due for release.
He said Mr Moore’s activities had hurt other people.
Judge Durcan concluded by encouraging him to avail of opportunities in prison.