Dunshaughlin Community Centre targeted again

A shocking fourth break-in to the Dunshaughlin Community Centre in just 19 days occurred early this morning and this time the culprit used a nine inch block to break the window which had been upgraded to toughened glass in the wake of recent incidents.
Centre manager and local councillor Gerry O’Connor explained that CCTV showed the culprit, who was wearing a hoody and had his face covered, in the premises at 12.32am.

 

 CCTV of the latest incident this morning

 

The culprit did not get anything, but caused damage and Cllr O’Connor told how he used a nine inch solid block to break through the toughened glass window, as a rock would not break it.
“The last time he used a rock but it bounced off the window and he went in another window. We have upgraded 10 windows and two doors since 15th July and we have also upgraded our CCTV and alarm system. There is no fear in this fella. He is in and out very quickly.”
Cllr O’Connor said he was at the centre within minutes of being alerted and the Gardai were also there quickly but there was no sign of the culprit.
He believes the same person is responsible for all four recent incidents at the centre.
The first burglary was on 8th July when the thief stole the till float, some money that charity scratch card sales and the money collected by staff for a Euro 2016 sweepstake. About €220 was taken on that occasion and around €200 of damage was caused.
The next break-in was on 12th July when again the till float of €165 was taken and about €200 was caused in damage. On 15th July, no cash was taken but around €400 of damage was caused.
The most recent incident was around 12.30am on Tuesday morning, 26th July, when a window was again broken but he didn’t make off with any cash.
Local Gardai are investigating and it is understood they are following a definite line of enquiry.
The spate of burglaries has shocked the local community and locals are rallying in support of the centre with a fundraising quiz this weekend and local businesses have also rowed in to help in the cost of repairs and upgrading security.
“The community is shocked. Between cash taken, damages and upgrades to windows, alarms and CCTV, the total cost of the break-ins is approximately €3000. Local businesses Hire2K, Lynx Alarms and Crystal Glazing are supporting some of the costs and the local community have come together to host a quiz night on Sunday 31st July in An Sibin to make up the balance,” said Cllr O’Connor.