Courts / Dublin / Report

Burglar stole from charity one week after prison release

Summary

James Lawlor, 44, with 168 prior convictions, stole €3,000 worth of items from the Mater Hospital Foundation a week after his release from prison. He pleaded guilty to burglary on 7 February 2024 and had served three years for a previous burglary. CCTV showed him entering the A&E department, registering as a patient, then later entering the foundation's building and leaving with two bags. The burglary caused €380 in damage and involved three laptops, an iPhone, three headsets and bags, totalling €3,736.50. Lawlor denied involvement but admitted to the CCTV footage. He was arrested on 11 February 2024 and has been in custody since. The court noted his long history of drug use and rehabilitation efforts. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a sentence of three years and nine months, suspending the final nine months for two years on strict conditions, and directed him to be supervised by Probation Services for 12 months after release.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Burglar stole from charity one week after prison release. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 7, 2024 Incident
• February 6 Other
• February 11, 2024 Incident
• 2025-04-30 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Burglary Drugs Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report