Kerry burglar attempts to evade the law by car, bike and swallowing the evidence
The KerrymanA judge has warned a defendant has ‘once last chance’ after he attempted to evade the law following a series of escalating crimes.
Matthew O’Connor (28) of Killeen Woods appeared in custody at Tralee District Court on July 15, pleading guilty to a slew of charges dating back to 2024.
The court heard he had gone to his girlfriend’s property, put his hand through the window and pulled her, causing her pain. He then took her phone and was later found in Kileen Woods where he “had to be restrained” by gardaí, said Sergeant Chris Manton.
Other changes included failing to keep the vehicle at the site of a crash on Killeen Road on September 29, 2024. Sgt Manton said a burst tyre caused Mr O’Connor to hit a stone wall, causing €2,000 in damage. His vehicle was later found to be “undriveable due to damage on the passenger side”, said the sergeant.
In another instance, Mr O’Connor stole alcohol and groceries from Aldi on John Joe Sheehy Road on May 8, 2026.
“The defendant made good his escape by jumping on a bicycle and cycling away,” said Sgt Manton.
He had also stolen alcohol from the store the day before.
He was further charged with the theft of €545 of clothing and cosmetics from TK Maxx at Manor West and of €1,171 from JD Sports at The Outlet Centre on Park Road, Killarney on Novembre 17, 2025. The sergeant noted he was in the company of others.
Mr O’Connor was charged with impeding a garda by attempting to swallow a joint of cannabis at University Hospital Kerry two days later, on November 19, as well as having cannabis in his possession.
Three days after that, he was charged for cannabis possession at Rahoonane, Tralee.
Solicitor Pat Mann noted all matters pertained to addiction and said his client hoped to secure accommodation in six to eight weeks at Cuan Mhuire, a rehabilitation charity.
Mr Mann said his client remains in a relationship with the woman he assaulted.
Judge Carol Anne Coolican ordered full cooperation with the Probation Service.
“One last change,” she told Mr O’Connor. “You’d better take it.”
His case was adjourned to October 7 for sentencing.