Laois teen stole Red Bull and chocolate bars
Portlaoise Courthouse
A TEENAGER who stole cans of Red Bull and chocolate bars was asked by a judge where he saw himself in three-years’ time, in custody or building a good future, when he appeared before the district court last week.
The question was posed to Rico Donoghue (19), Heather Lane, Esker Hills, Portlaoise, who pleaded guilty at Portlaoise District Court to the theft of cans of Red Bull and chocolate bars to the value of €20.15 from the Go Petrol service station, Mountmellick Road, Portlaoise on 28 March.
Garda Sgt JJ Kirby said the defendant has no previous convictions.
Defending solicitor Philip Meagher said that his client was accompanied in court by his father.
He said on the day of the incident, Mr Donoghue had been in the company of another young man who “took the Red Bull and he (Mr Donoghue) took the chocolate. He has no explanation why he took it. It was a spur of the moment decision. He is very apologetic and ashamed for what he did.” Mr Meagher said his client had brought €20 with him to court to pay for the items he took.
Judge Susan Fay said: “This is not the most serious issue before this court, but it is concerning that they were not essential items that he took and I’d be very concerned as to where he is heading in the future. It’s your decision (Mr Donoghue) where your life is heading. Where do you see yourself in two or three years’ time? In custody or having a good future? At 19 years of age is where you make choices about your future.” Judge Fay remanded Mr Donoghue on continuing bail to the 21 September sitting of the court and in the meantime instructed that he engages with the Athy Alternative Programme.
