This article is from page 12 of the 2011-06-07 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 12 JPG
A JUDGE has warned two teenagers involved in a burglary in Kilrush that they must work with the probation services or face prison sentences.
Judge Carroll Moran was speaking at Ennis Circuit Court on Monday (May 30) at the case of Warren O’Donnell (19), of Moore Street, Kilrush,
Mr O’Donnell is charged with aggravated burglary and assault at Kilrush on November 12 2008.
Another teenager, who was 13 when the incident occurred and cannot be named, is also charged in connection with the burglary.
Assault victim, Domingos Semedo, said in a victim impact statement read in court by a Portuguese interpreter that the incident had changed his life and forced him to give up work for a period of four months.
He stated that he had lost out in just over € 17,000 in wages. This figure was disputed by Pat Whyms, Counsel for O’Donnell.
Mr Whyms questioned how Mr Semedo could have lost out on € 17,000 when he had only moved to Kilrush four days prior to the incident.
Mr Semedo, who was not in court, stated that he went through a “very stressful” period, adding, “I still wake up thinking about the incident…I still have nightmares.”
While thanking the gardaí for their support and assistance, Mr Semedo stated that he was “very disappointed with the criminal justice system in Ireland” as he did not think the “aggressors” would be punished.
“It would help to know that the aggressors got a sentence”, he added.
Mr Whyms said his client had got into “more serious difficulties” since 2008 and was currently serving a prison sentence.
He said probation reports had indicated that his client needed ongoing addiction and psychological counseling.
Judge Carroll Moran said he was “very concerned” about Mr O’Donnell’s subsequent offences.
He adjourned the matter for 12 months.
He added that if there isn’t a “glowing report from the probation services”, the accused faced possible three year jail sentences.