Cork shoplifter given 10-month jail term for repeat offences; She had 35 convictions

A repeat offender stealing from shops was causing havoc in Cork city where shop owners are employing people and doing their best, a sentencing judge declared.

Judge Olann Kelleher said courts had a duty to protect shops in such circumstances, as he jailed Vandana Munteanu of 50 Orchard Court, Blackpool, Cork for 10 months.

The 24-year-old confessed to her part in shoplifting on December 4, 2017, at Aldi, Westside retail park, Ballincollig, and more recently on February 25 at Kids Care, North Main St, Cork.

Sergeant John Kelleher said the defendant was one of three women who went into the Kids Care shop on February 25 when staff were distracted by their behaviour as one of them took €400 worth of items and put them into her skirts before walking out of the shop.

“They were followed and all of the property was recovered,” Sgt Kelleher said.

The sergeant also described what happened in the previous incident at Aldi back on December 4, 2017. Again, three women entered the shop and €103 worth of items were taken away concealed in skirts.

Ms Munteanu, aged 24, pleaded guilty to her part in both thefts.

Sgt Kelleher said she had 35 previous convictions, including 23 related to theft.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said the defendant had co-operated and pleaded guilty.

Judge Olann Kelleher said: “She is causing havoc in this city. She has been getting short custodial sentences but those don’t seem to be having any effect. The court has a duty to protect shops which are employing people in Cork and doing the best they can.”

The judge imposed a 10-month jail term. Recognisances in the event of an appeal were set at €750 plus independent surety of €750.