Judge says businesses in Tullamore need to be protected as he sentences woman to four months in prison

Judge Andrew Cody told solicitor Aisling Maloney that her client must give evidence that she is getting help before he will grant bail, at last week's district court.

Finola Prenderghast, (47) of 77, Sean Costello Street, Athlone, was in custody when she appeared at last week's sitting of Tullamore district court.

She was charged with stealing Christmas decorations to the value of €74 from Home Savers, Tullamore on October 12, 2023 and with stealing an Adidas track suit valued at €110 from Sports Direct, Tullamore, on the same date. In addition she was charged with resisting and wilfully obstructing Garda David Harney acting in the execution of his duty and with handling stolen toys and toiletries valued at €200 at Chancery Lane, Tullamore.

Solicitor Aisling Maloney said Ms Prenderghast was hamstrung by being in custody. Judge Cody said he needs some sort of evidence to indicate she is getting the help she needs.

Ms Prenderghast had 34 previous convictions including no insurance or driving licence and possession and supply of drugs.

Solicitor Aisling Maloney said Ms Prenderghast had led a blameless life until she fell into heroin addiction. She is very dedicated to her recovery. She has three children, she said. She hasn't obtained any treatment and she is down to 10 ml of methadone a day which is quite a reduction, she said.

Judge Andrew Cody said businesses in Tullamore need to be protected. He imposed three months in prison on the stolen property charges and for obstructing a member of the gardai he sentenced her to one month. In total Ms Prenderghast received four months in prison.