Alcoholic who 'fell off the wagon' shoplifted alcohol in Cork town seven times in one month

An alcoholic who “fell off the wagon” went on a stealing spree from local supermarkets in Macroom, Co Cork, over a one-month period, the district court has heard.

Court presenter, Sergeant Trish O’Sullivan, told Macroom District Court that Philip O’Driscoll, aged 34, of Barrack Lane, Macroom, Co Cork, was charged with seven counts of theft all committed between April and May 2025.

The court was told that the items taken were all alcohol on six occasions from SuperValu in Macroom and on one occasion from Aldi in the town.

The court was told that O’Driscoll had 93 previous convictions including theft, public order offences, road traffic offences and drug offences.

Defence solicitor, Patrick Goold, said O’Driscoll was an alcoholic and most of his offending was linked to his addiction issues. He said his client “fell off the wagon” in April and May and began stealing alcohol.

The court was told that O’Driscoll was attending addiction services and was also working part-time for a local flooring contractor. Judge Joanne Carroll said O’Driscoll could “expect a positive outcome” if he deals with his alcohol issue. 

She asked for a probation report to be prepared and adjourned the matter to January 21, 2026. The judge added: “He has to take his chance now.”

This article is funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme