Wicklow man (48) given jail term for trying to enter elderly woman’s home
The Wicklow PeopleA Wicklow man has been given a prison sentence after attempting to break in to an elderly woman’s home this summer.
Jason Fitzgerald (48), of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty at Bray District Court to the offence, which took place at a house in Ferrybank, Arklow, on June 17, 2025.
The court was told back in early September that Mr Fitzgerald attempted to break into the home of an 80-year-old woman, cutting his hand on a window in the process.
He was arrested nearby by gardaí and later made a full admission. At that stage, the court also heard that he had been drinking on the night and believed the property was vacant.
Evidence was given of Fitzgerald’s long struggle with alcohol addiction, his period of homelessness, and the fact he had been in custody on remand since July. His solicitor described him as “a sorry case” and said the incident had been extremely frightening for the elderly victim.
Today's News in 90 Seconds - September 30th
At sentencing, solicitor Dermot Hickey told the court that Mr Fitzgerald had since been attending school, working as a cleaner, and had abstained from alcohol due to his “unhealthy relationship with drink”.
Judge David Kennedy noted Mr Fitzgerald’s background and his mistaken belief that the property was empty, but said his record of previous convictions and similar offences meant custody was unavoidable.
He imposed a 10-month prison sentence, to begin on September 25, 2025.
See Why The XC40 is So Affordable (View Offers)
Europe’s digital sovereignty enters a new phase
The All New XC40 is Turning Heads (See Why)
See The EVs With The Longest Ranges For 2027 (Take A Look)
I Asked AI What Rich People Do Differently. The Answer Was One Word.