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Deterrence "had to be prioritised" in case of vulnerable woman targeted (81) by robber
Summary
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court case, Vasile Marin, 24, was found guilty of robbing an 81‑year‑old woman's purse on 10 September 2016. The victim, who had recently had a pacemaker fitted, was targeted while shopping at Eurospar; Marin, seen on CCTV, approached her from behind, seized her purse containing €300, and fled. Marin had previously been convicted of theft twice, had no employment history, and was receiving disability allowance for hearing issues and depression. He claimed a gambling debt as his motive. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced him to three years' imprisonment, suspending the final 18 months, a decision upheld by the Court of Appeal. The judge emphasised that protecting vulnerable elderly people and ensuring deterrence were key reasons for the custodial sentence. The appeal was dismissed.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Deterrence "had to be prioritised" in case of vulnerable woman targeted (81) by robber. Charges or matters: robbery at Sutton Grove, Sutton on September 10, 2016. Procedural stage: appeal
When:
- September 10, 2016 Incident
- February 27 Incident
- 2019-05-30 Publication
Why: He cited "desperation" as his motive for the offence, claiming he had a gambling debt. CNI source report
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: robbery at Sutton Grove, Sutton on September 10, 2016 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Marin was sentenced to three years imprisonment with the final 18 months suspended by Judge Melanie Greally on February 27 last, which was upheld by the Court of Appeal today. The sentencing judge said that "generally speaking" someone with a limited criminal record like Marin would not expect to receive a custodial sentence. "However, elderly people have to be protected from being targeted by opportunistic persons," she said.
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