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Gardai found burglar hiding in attic

Summary

Brian O'Connor, 25, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for burglary at McGrath's Pub in Drumcondra on February 28, 2019. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge. Prosecution evidence indicated O'Connor entered the premises by kicking through ceiling boards after climbing in through the roof. He was discovered hiding in the attic by gardaí, who had been alerted by a carpenter who saw him looking out a window. O'Connor was arrested but was too intoxicated to be interviewed initially and made no admissions when later questioned. Judge Melanie Greally noted that O'Connor caused substantial damage to the roof and ceiling and intended to steal alcohol and cash. She also acknowledged his history of 103 previous convictions. In mitigation, defense counsel highlighted O'Connor's chaotic childhood, a suicide attempt as a teenager, and his cooperation during arrest despite intoxication. The court sentenced O'Connor to three years in prison, suspending the final nine months on strict conditions.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Gardai found burglar hiding in attic. Charges or matters: burglary at McGrath's Pub on February 28, 2019. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• February 28, 2019 Incident
• 2020-02-26 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Burglary Stage Sentence

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Read the original CNI report