Kerry man should ‘cop on’ after stealing gravy boat and Bluetooth speaker from former employer

By Anna Zacharias, The Kerryman

Two former employees of Homesavers at Manor West, Tralee pled guilty to theft from the store on multiple occasions at Tralee District Court last Wednesday.

Jordan Mason (23) of Caherlaleen, Tralee was charged with stealing a Bluetooth speaker, a gravy boat, a vape and other items totalling €271.22.

The incidents occurred on October 10 and on November 2, 22 and 25.

Charges were brought on December 3 and there was CCTV of the accused, court presenter Sgt Chris Maton said.

Mr Mason’s solicitor, Brendan Ahern, made a full admission on his behalf.

“He is putting his best foot forward,” said Mr Ahern. “The company won’t be at a loss, judge. He’s ashamed to be here today.”

Mr Mason had recently taken an apprenticeship as an electrician and was concerned a conviction would impact his employment.

Judge Mark O’Connell said he should have a bit of “cop on”.

“It wasn’t a one-off,” said the judge. “There were four separate times he was participating in fraud. He has a clean record and I’m not going to give him a criminal conviction.”

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The judge ordered Mr Mason to pay €500 to Saint Vincent de Paul by October 22.

In default, he faces a conviction and fine of €750.

Later that day, another former Homesavers employee pleaded guilty to theft from the store totalling €1,331.49.

Anna Misztal (27) of House C, Fountain Court, Tralee, faced eight charges dating from September 2024.

Judge O’Connell ordered Ms Misztal pay €500 to Saint Vincent de Paul with the same conditions “in the interest of being fair”.

“She’s lucky,” said Judge O’Connell. “Because there’s eight counts.”