Navan woman back before court one month after receiving suspended sentence

A 35-year-old mother of four children was before a court a month after receiving a suspended sentence for another theft offence.

Christine McDonagh, Tailteann Drive, Navan appeared before Trim District Court on Thursday (8th January) charged with thefts from local stores involving a total sum of €623.

The court heard she stole clothing valued €184 from Sports Direct at Navan Shopping Centre on 28th May last; groceries valued €64 from Tesco, Navan Shopping Centre on 11th May last; clothing valued €248 from Penneys at the centre on 7th August last; items valued €12.30 at Hannons Centra, Commons Road, Navan on 3rd September last; electrical items and groceries from Choice, Navan Shopping Centre on 7th December 2024.

Also the court heard that the defendant had 12 previous convictions, mainly for theft.

Barrister Paul Noctor said that his client had difficulties with her mental health. Judge Eirinn McKiernan pointed out “she got a suspended sentence on 15th April 2025 but she was back in court one month later”.

Mr Noctor said his client was trying to get her life in order and asked for some time to allow her pay compensation.

Defendant said: “If you’re planning to put me away I need help with my mental health. I’m not a bad person”.

The Judge requested the preparation of a probation report for a date in March next and told defendant “you’re getting a chance. If you miss one appointment with the Probation Service you’ll be back where you are now. I want compensation paid by that date.”