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Suspended sentence for gambling addict who stole thousands from colleagues

Summary

Gigi Birsan, 33, of Dundalk, pleaded guilty to 103 thefts and 33 attempted thefts between late 2016 and late 2017, stealing over €3,000 from colleagues and housemates to fund online poker. He returned the full amount, €3,164, and has addressed his gambling addiction. Judge Orla Crowe set a headline sentence of three years but imposed an 18‑month suspended sentence, ordering Birsan to keep the peace and behave well for that period. The case arose after staff at the Drury Buildings restaurant noticed small deductions from bank accounts, leading to an investigation that traced a PokerStars account linked to Birsan. He was arrested in Romania under a European Arrest Warrant and admitted all transactions. Birsan has no prior convictions and has shown remorse, writing a letter to the judge and claiming rehabilitation. The court noted his low risk of reoffending and stable relationship with his wife.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Suspended sentence for gambling addict who stole thousands from colleagues. Charges or matters: 103 counts of theft and 33 counts of attempted thefts at unknown locations within the State between late 2016 and late 2017. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• 2023-07-21 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Sentence Theft

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Read the original CNI report