By Ronan Judge

A Galway man already serving a lengthy prison sentence has received a one month term for stealing jars of honey.

At Galway District Court, Brian Ward (29), with an address at 86 Gleann Dara, Rahoon, pleaded guilty to the theft of three jars of Manuka honey worth €259.97 from Holland and Barrett on May 11, 2024.

After being told the father of five has a number of previous convictions for theft linked to “huge addiction issues”, Judge Catherine Ryan said, “I take it it’s not honey he’s addicted to”.

“No judge,” solicitor Michael Cunningham replied, “It’s more serious issues”.

Sgt Joanne McGhee told the court that the incident was captured on CCTV and Brian Ward was identified as the man who carried out the theft. The jars of honey were not recovered.

The accused had 44 previous convictions including for theft and public order related offences.

Mr Cunningham told the court Ward was currently serving a lengthy sentence and was not due for release until December 2027. His client is getting on well in prison, had participated in restorative justice and career planning initiatives and was hoping to see an addiction counsellor.

Mr Cunningham said that Ward had a six-months suspended sentence “hanging over him” once his current sentence expires and was asking the court to leave some light at the end of the tunnel.

“He wants to serve his sentence, get out and not go back,” he added.

Judge Ryan said it was good to see Ward was doing something good with his time in custody. Imposing a one month concurrent prison sentence, Judge Ryan said: “Do keep up the good work you’re doing in there”.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.

Pictured: Galway District Court: Judge sentenced man to jail for theft of jars of honey.