Burglar steals from rural Kerry courthouse studio and returns before a judge
The KerrymanA burglar who stole from an art studio at the Dingle Courthouse ended up back where it all started, at Dingle District Court.
The court heard that Thomas Begley (27) of Carraigraigue, Ballydavid and Cuas, Ballydavid stole from Courthouse Studios at The Mall, Dingle on October 13, 2024. It was alleged Mr Begley acted with another male and took property belonging to the studio’s owner, Sergeant Chris Manton told the court.
Both men were identified by CCTV, the court heard.
Mr Begley was also charged with handling stolen property, including a remote control, a magnet bar, a Japanese shaving kit and two small ornaments on John Street, Dingle.
Although some items were recovered, there was an ongoing loss of €2,500, said the sergeant.
Mr Begley also faced charges related to the theft of three bottles of aftershave worth €210 from CH Chemist in Tralee and the possession of cannabis and Alprazolam, worth €148, at Tralee Bus Station on December 18, 2024.
Mr Begley’s previous convictions included three thefts, the court heard.
“He finds himself going from the Courthouse Studio to the real courthouse and that’s where justice will be dispensed,” said his solicitor Pádraig O’Connell.
He noted Mr Begley had addiction struggles but presented a letter from Cuan Mhuire treatment centre indicating strong cooperation and attendance.
“I would ask you to be as lenient as possible,” said the solicitor.
Judge Waters sentenced Mr Begley to six months for the burglary, taking into consideration the handling of stolen property.
He gave an additional four months for thefts from the chemist, taking into consideration convictions for drug possession.
Sentences will run concurrently due to the mitigating factor of a plea, said the judge.