‘A prisoner half my life’ - accused asks judge for immediate sentence
The KerrymanA man who boarded a train to Cork after stealing five bottles of vodka asked the judge to impose an immediate sentence at Tralee District Court on Thursday.
Standing in the dock, he explained he did not want legal representation.
“I’ve been a prisoner half my life, anything a solicitor can tell me, I know myself,” said Paul McCarthy (50) of Cork Simon Community, Millhouse, Anderson’s Quay, Cork.
“Give me the sentence. I’m not looking for mercy, I’m looking for judgement.”
The court heard he stole vodka worth €140 from Centra, West Beach, Cobh on August 12. Two bottles were recovered.
Mr McCarthy did not dispute the facts.
“I want to be sentenced today and I don’t need no gardaí to give evidence,” he told the judge.
Mr McCarthy had 278 previous convictions, including 83 for theft.
“I’m sorry for my actions, I’m an alcoholic,” he said.
Mr McCarthy said he had pursued treatment at Arbour House Treatment Centre and hoped to start counselling in two weeks.
“I am glad you’re going to get some assistance,” said Judge Liz Healy.
She sentenced him to a month in prison.