'I didn’t mean for anyone to get hurt': Jail for man who went on six-week crime spree

A 40-year-old Cork man who went on a six-week crime spree has been jailed for two years.

Judge John Martin said that is how he would categorise the latest crimes committed by Denis Foley who already had 125 previous convictions.

The defendant’s barrister, Emmet Boyle, said the accused had completed courses related to drug rehabilitation and wellbeing but he did have a slip and regressed to criminal activities.

The defendant also spoke up at Cork Circuit Criminal Court, saying: “I would like to apologise to the victims of the crimes. I didn’t mean for anyone to get hurt. I think if I am given a chance by this court I will do more good than harm.” 

Judge Martin said: 

“You sent on a considerable spree of burglaries and knowingly possessing stuff that was not yours. I am taking this as one prolonged spree that went on for six weeks.” 

A sentence of two years and six months was imposed with the last six months suspended.

Mr Foley of no fixed address admitted burglary at The Flying Enterprise, Barrack Street, Cork, on June 21 and assault causing harm to a member of staff, by throwing a bottle at him when he was caught at the scene.

He also admitted that on June 13 he committed a burglary at a house at Park Villas and another at Kingston Avenue and stole a car at Victoria Road. 

He further admitted burgling a house at Green Hill, Boreenmanna Road, on June 17 and that on May 11 he was in possession of stolen property.