'His whole career is fuelled by his drug problem': Limerick man receives 108th conviction

A MAN who broke into a Renault van has been convicted and sentenced to a further three months in prison, Limerick District Court heard.

Dermot Calvert, 30, who is currently serving a prison sentence for burglary, pleaded guilty to committing criminal damage on Nicholas Street, Limerick city, on February 2, 2024.

The court heard that Mr Calvert smashed the window of a Renault van, before breaking into the vehicle. The damage done to the vehicle amounted to €200.

Prosecuting Sergeant Denis Waters detailed that Mr Calvert has 107 previous convictions, including 14 prior criminal damage offences, escape from custody, assault causing harm, 13 previous burglary charges, 31 thefts, nine counts of possession of articles, drug and public order offences, and the unauthorised taking of a vehicle.

READ MORE: Tragic Oisín, 12, had been rescued from Limerick hotel room by armed gardai

Having heard Mr Calvert’s previous record, Judge Patricia Harney said: “I’ve got a flavour”.

Defending Solicitor Julianne Kiely said that Mr Calvert has been in custody for nearly two years, and that the man has “a poor record”.

In mitigation, Ms Kiely said that the man is “doing extremely well in custody”, and that he is due for release on May 15, 2026.

To this, the judge said “the problem is when he is released” and that “his whole career is fuelled by his drug problem”.

Judge Harney further added that the victim of the crime likely used the vehicle for work.

Mr Calvert was then convicted and sentenced to three months further imprisonment by Judge Harney.

-Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.