Woman caught stealing clothes on Valentine’s Day

Woman caught stealing clothes on Valentine’s Day

By Brendan Grehan

A SHOPLIFTER caught stealing clothes on St Valentine’s Day was remanded for a probation report by Blanchardstown Court.

Winnie Collins, aged 37, with an address at Collinstown Crescent, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty to stealing clothing from Penneys, Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, on February 14, 2016.

Tallaght Court House 4 large

Garda Laura Conlon told Judge David McHugh that Collins picked up the items and walked out of the shop without paying.

She was stopped by security staff, gardai were called to the scene and she was later arrested and charged.

Garda Conlon said the clothing was all recovered in a saleable condition.

The court heard that Collins has six previous convictions, including a number for theft.

Collins’ counsel, Alan Delany Bl,  said his client was in a difficult place at the time of the incident.

He said she was suffering from depression but had since gone to her doctor and was now on prescribed medication.

Mr Delany said Collins also suffered from anxiety and panic attacks but was now getting the help she needed.

He said the defendant’s husband was in court with her and he had been a great support.

Judge McHugh asked Mr Delany what the defendant’s depression had to do with her shoplifting.

Mr Delany said it had an effect on Collins’ personality and she was “not herself” during this time.

He said this incident and Collins’ previous convictions for theft all happened during the same time.

Judge McHugh remanded Collins on continuing bail to a date in October for a probation report and for sentencing.

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