Courts / Dublin / Report

Visiting student robbed after asking for directions

Date
2021-01-29

Stage
Sentence

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

Sandra Warren, 45, was sentenced by the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to a fully suspended 30‑month imprisonment for robbing a foreign student on O'Curry Avenue, Dublin 8, on 23 May 2016. The student, who had been in Ireland for four days, was led by Warren down a laneway, where Warren seized her bag containing a wallet, bank cards and phone. Warren, who was using drugs and under pressure from a man to obtain money, pleaded guilty. The judge noted Warren's abusive relationship had ended and that she was now in stable accommodation and on methadone. The sentence was suspended for three years on strict conditions, including continued participation in a drug treatment programme. Warren had eight prior convictions for robbery, burglary and theft. The victim was left traumatised, with whiplash injuries, and unable to access funds or contact anyone. The court emphasised the seriousness of the offence against a guest in the country.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Visiting student robbed after asking for directions. Charges or matters: robbery of the young woman at O'Curry Avenue, Dublin 8 on May 23, 2016. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

May 23, 2016 Incident
2021-01-29 Publication

Why: Passing sentencing today, Judge Ní Chúlacháin said the victim had to start sleeping with a knuckle-duster under her pillow because she was so afraid following the robbery. CNI source report

Case subjects

Sandra Warren

Defendant

Charges: robbery of the young woman at O'Curry Avenue, Dublin 8 on May 23, 2016 (Admitted)

Plea: Guilty

Outcome: She said Warren had previously received suspended sentences and they have not been successful, noting that she was serving a suspended sentence at the time of the robbery. Judge Ní Chúlacháin sentenced Warren to 30 months imprisonment, but suspended the entirety of the sentence for three years on strict conditions including that she continue her engagement with a drug treatment programme.; Judge Ní Chúlacháin had previously adjourned sentencing to allow a psychiatric assessment and for an assessment of supports Warren will need to take place.