'This has to stop': Judge tells Cork thief to seek help
The accused has a total of 232 previous convictions, including 73 for theft.
“This has to stop,” a sentencing judge said to a woman with 73 theft convictions appearing in court to confess to four more counts of shoplifting.
Julianne O’Farrell of Marble Hall, South Douglas Road, Cork, pleaded guilty to carrying out thefts at Diesel on Oliver Plunkett Street on November 13, Dunnes on Merchants Quay on October 12, Boots in Douglas on May 18, 2021, and Phelan’s pharmacy on the same date.
Defence solicitor Shane Collins-Daly said on behalf of Ms O’Farrell: “She is now 32. She has four children and lives with her parents. When she came before the court two weeks ago she was very distressed. She said her mental health was very poor.
“On speaking to her today I would say that her mental health is still quite poor.
“She has a shocking record — she cannot make any excuses for that. Recently a relationship broke down. It was a difficult relationship and the breakup of it was quite traumatic. She was addicted to tablets and alcohol.
“Previously, she lost another partner suddenly around this time of year. This can be a difficult time of year for her.”
Sergeant Gearóid Davis said the accused had a total of 232 previous convictions.
Judge Mary Dorgan said: “What can the court do to assist her? She has a shocking number of previous convictions but she has a lot of difficulties. This has to stop.”
Mr Collins-Daly said the accused needed counselling — including grief counselling.
Judge Dorgan said: “What we are trying to do is help you. What we want you to do is stop the offending and get whatever help you need to stop the offending. I am anxious that some good will come out of this.
"Probation might be able to forward you to an organisation that can help you with your difficulties.”
Ms O’Farrell was remanded in custody until December 11 for a probation report requested by Judge Dorgan.
