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'Rude' shoplifter gets concurrent prison sentence for stealing €5 can

Summary

Thomas Carlyle, 49, who is already serving a 12‑month sentence for burglary, was given a one‑month prison term that runs concurrently with his existing sentence after pleading guilty to stealing a €5.58 Buzzball can from a Spar store in Stillorgan on 27 September 2024. The offence was committed in breach of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 2001. Carlyle repeatedly interrupted the hearing at Dún Laoghaire District Court, prompting Judge Anne Watkin to ignore his rudeness and contempt, pause the case until he calmed down, and later hear his plea. Defence counsel Michael O'Brien highlighted Carlyle's long‑standing addiction struggles, recent bereavement, and lack of convictions between 1998 and 2021, noting his improved behaviour in custody. The judge noted the low value of the stolen item but imposed the one‑month sentence, to run concurrently with the existing term.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Rude' shoplifter gets concurrent prison sentence for stealing €5 can. Charges or matters: stealing a "Buzzball" alcoholic drink worth €5.58 from Spar, Kilmacud Road Lower, Stillorgan, on 27 September 2024, contrary to Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 2001. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• 27 September 2024 Hearing Or Sentence
• 1998 and 2021 Incident
• 2025-10-16 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Burglary Stage Sentence Theft

Read the original CNI report