Man jailed for Tesco theft in Wicklow requests transfer from Cloverhill Prison
The Wicklow PeopleA repeat offender with a long criminal history has been sentenced to 10 months in prison after being caught stealing stock worth €290 from Tesco.
Brian Stokes (26), with an address in Balbriggan and formerly of Finglas, pleaded guilty at Bray District Court to one count of theft.
The court heard that at around 2.45pm on March 2024, Mr Stokes was observed stealing €290 worth of stock. He was detained at the scene and later charged.
The court was informed that Mr Stokes has 85 previous convictions for a wide range of offences, including dangerous driving, assault, and assault causing harm.
He was previously sentenced to 18 months imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Court for the production of an article. His most recent conviction came at Trim District Court for dangerous driving.
Mr Stokes is currently serving a sentence and is due for release in February 2026.
Ciara O’Brien BL, counsel for the defence, told the court that her client is originally from Finglas and spent much of his childhood in the care system. The court also heard that Mr Stokes has been diagnosed with depression and is currently receiving medication from the prison doctor.
Ms O’Brien said her client recently graduated with a QQI Level 5 diploma in learning and goal setting, and that he is experiencing severe difficulties with other prisoners in Cloverhill Prison. She requested that he be transferred to the Midlands Prison.
Judge David Kennedy sentenced Mr Stokes to 10 months’ imprisonment, to run concurrent with his current sentence. The judge also noted the request regarding his transfer.
“I am very grateful, thanks judge,” said Mr Stokes.