'Lowest of the low' - Man stole candle money from chapel of Tullamore hospital

The actions of a man who stole money from a hospital chapel was described as the ''lowest of the low'' by Judge Andrew Cody at last week's district court.

In his evidence, Sergeant Richard Thornton said that on November 4 2024, Gardai were called to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore where a quantity of money had been stolen from the candle box. CCTV footage identified John Delaney (38) St Laurence's Fields, Loughrea, as having taken money from a box which contains donations for candles.

Mr Delaney had 123 previous convictions including, assault, drink driving and driving without insurance.

Solicitor Aisling Maloney said Mr Delaney, who has two children, was deeply ashamed.

Judge Cody said the candle box is for people who go to the chapel to light a candle and pray for their loved ones who are often seriously ill in hospital. Has he ''nothing better to do'' than take that money, he asked.

Judge Cody imposed two months in prison. If he ever comes back for anything like that again he will get the maximum sentence, said Judge Cody.