Courts / Dublin / Report

Shop assistant thought armed robber was "messing"

Summary

Dillon Campbell, 31, of Trim Road, Coolock, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the robbery of cash from Dylan Stagno at the Esso service station on Malahide Road, Artane, on September 12, 2016. Prosecution evidence stated that Campbell entered the shop, initially appearing to joke with the victim before pulling out a black imitation firearm. He then became aggressive, demanding money and coins, and fled with approximately €230 in cash. The weapon was later identified as a 6mm air pistol. Campbell had previous convictions, including for possession of drugs for sale or supply, and was on bail for criminal damage and trespass at the time of the offence. Defence counsel attributed the crime to a chronic drug addiction and a significant debt. Judge Melanie Greally described the incident as serious due to the aggression and the realistic appearance of the firearm. While noting Campbell's efforts to address his drug and alcohol abuse and his supportive family, the Judge highlighted a high risk of re-offending if these issues were not resolved. She sentenced Campbell to five years in prison but suspended the final two and a half years on the condition that he complies with Probation Services after his release.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Shop assistant thought armed robber was "messing". Charges or matters: robbery of cash from Dylan Stagno at the Esso service station, Malahide Road, Artane on September 12, 2016. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• September 12, 2016 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2017-03-15 Publication

Why: Counsel said Campbell committed the robbery in order to discharge a very significant drug debt he had built up. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Sentence Theft

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Read the original CNI report