Limerick woman with over 100 previous convictions jailed for shoplifting

A WOMAN with over 100 previous convictions has been jailed after she pleaded guilty, at Newcastle West Court, to a theft offence.

Stacey Considine, aged 42, of St Ita’s Street, St Mary’s Park, Limerick city admitted to the offence which took place in Newcastle West on October 3, 2022.

Inspector Liam Wallace, prosecuting, said at 5.20pm on the date in question the defendant entered Homesavers in the town.

“She took items valued at €190 and left the store, passing all checkout points,” he said.

Judge Carol Anne Coolican asked if the property was recovered? “No,” said Insp Wallace.

The judge then asked if compensation has been paid?

Replying, Ted McCarthy, solicitor for Ms Considine, said the prospects were bleak as his client is in custody.

Insp Wallace said Ms Considine has 104 previous convictions with 97 of them for theft.

Mr McCarthy said his client is due for release in August after a sentence was imposed for a “myriad of thefts”.

Major garda investigation in Limerick town after ‘vicious’ videos of girls fighting shared widely

“She has been wracked for years with a serious drug addiction. She steals to either buy drugs or pay off a drug debt - she has been under considerable pressure.

“Last November she was in poor health. She has improved since she has been in custody. She has been on a methadone programme in prison,” said Mr McCarthy.

Judge Coolican said she hopes it works for Ms Considine.

A two week prison sentence was imposed on the defendant.