By Ronan Judge

A woman who carried out thefts at businesses in Ballinasloe has been jailed for three months.

Judge James Faughnan imposed the sentence on Sinead Carroll at Ballinasloe District Court, telling the accused: “You’re not going to be coming into this area and robbing things. People are finding it hard enough”.

Carroll, with an address at 14 An Gort Fáda, Ballinasloe, pleaded guilty to the theft of electronics valued at €194.75 at Tesco, Dunlo Shopping Centre, Ballinasloe, on May 5, 2025.

She also admitted stealing toiletries and a dog toy valued €17 from Billy’s Discount Store, Ballinasloe on May 29. Both offences are contrary to Section 4 of the Theft and Fraud Offences Act.

Outlining the facts of the case, Sergeant Christy Browne, told the court the accused entered Tesco on May 5 at 6.50pm, picked up some electronic goods and attempted to leave.

The court heard security staff intercepted Carroll, and the goods were recovered in saleable condition.

Sgt Browne told the court the accused entered Billy’s Discount Store, took a number of items and attempted to leave without paying.

Carroll also pleaded guilty to an offence of failing to appear in court, contrary to section 13 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984. Her sole previous conviction is for theft, the court heard.

Solicitor Gearoid Geraghty told the court his client has “significant drug abuse issues” and has been on methadone.

He asked the court to take into account that his client has only one previous conviction and that the goods involved were recovered in a saleable condition.

Judge Faughnan imposed a three-month term on one of the charges and took the remaining offences into consideration. Recognisance were set in the event of an appeal to the circuit court.

The accused must lodge in court €750 and an independent surety of €750.

Funded by Courts Reporting Scheme