Carlow man with 28 convictions gets Probation Act

A MAN with 28 previous convictions who was recently released from prison received the benefit of the Probation Act for stealing a jacket after the judge accepted “he is making a gigantic effort”.

John McCarthy (28) with an address at the DePaul Hotel, Riverdale, Haymarket, Carlow was in Athy District Court for sentencing after pleading guilty to the theft of the jacket valued at €32 from Dealz on Duke Street in the town on 9 November 2023.

Sergeant Dave Hanrahan told the court that the jacket “was not recovered” and that Mr McCarthy had 28 previous convictions, five of which were for theft, two for robbery and two for handling stolen goods.

Defending solicitor Jacqui McManus told the court that at that time her 28-year-old client “was just out of prison, after serving four months”. 

“He was homeless at the time and had a huge addiction to drugs, but is doing very well now,” she said.

“He is making a gigantic effort,” said Ms McManus.

“He’s on a methadone programme and has references from DePaul, Wheatfield Prison and an outreach worker,” she revealed.

Judge Zaidan asked him about his educational achievements, and Mr McCarthy told him he did the junior cert and “some leaving cert, but not the whole thing”.

“Have you €32 for Dealz?” asked the judge.

“I have, but not on me,” said Mr McCarthy.

“Can you go get €32 without carrying out any more offences?” asked the judge.

When Mr McCarthy returned, the judge gave him the benefit of the Probation Act taking into mind all his previous convictions.

He said: “You’re lucky to have St Catherine’s (rehab).”