Courts / Galway / Report

"Menace to society" with 166 previous convictions gets jail term reduced on appeal

Summary

Martin McDonagh, 30, of Galway, pleaded guilty to robbery on 13 October 2013 and was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment on 12 March 2015. The Court of Appeal suspended the final 18 months of that sentence, giving him a chance to reform. McDonagh, who had 166 prior convictions, was described by the judge as a menace to society. The robbery involved impersonating a Garda, demanding keys, punching the victim, and stealing a mobile phone. The victim suffered severe impact, losing confidence and €1,600. McDonagh had lived in Canada before returning to Ireland. He was ordered to enter a good‑behaviour bond for three years after release. The appeal decision was made by Justice George Birmingham, with Justices Garrett Sheehan and John Edwards.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: "Menace to society" with 166 previous convictions gets jail term reduced on appeal. Charges or matters: robbery at a location in the city on October 13, 2013. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• October 13, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
• March 12, 2015 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2016-02-19 Publication

Why: McDonagh had the final 18 months of his sentence suspended today by the Court of Appeal "in order to give him a chance to deliver" on promises to reform himself. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal Theft

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Read the original CNI report