Laois burglary has had ‘profound’ impact on victim

A burglary on a home in Portlaoise has had a “profound” impact on the homeowner, a court was told. 

Jason Daly (23) of 36 Sean Doire, Durrow, Laois had previously admitted burglary at a house at Wellview Terrace, Portlaoise and attempting to get into a car at Wellview Terrace, Portlaoise on September 26, 2024. 

Judge Susan Fay said “this is a very serious charge and the impact on the victim has been profound.” 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said the burglary charge related to trespass with intent to steal but nothing was taken.

“The victim's peace of mind was taken,” Judge Fay pointed out. 

Mr Fitzgerald said the injured party had indicated that he would rather not attend court to give evidence. He said the man didn’t need to come to court because of the plea of guilty and he asked the judge to give his client credit for that. 

Mr Fitzgerald described the crime as a “flippant offence” that occurred as a result of drug misuse at a time. He said his client had other matters before the court on December 9 and he asked if the case could go forward to that date. 

“Are you applying to remand in custody for finalisation?” Judge Fay asked. 

Mr Fitzgerald confirmed that he was and said his client had abstained from drugs and he wanted to “put some roadmaps in place” to help support him. 

Judge Fay said she would like to explore the possibility of restorative justice in the case and also have the defendant assessed for suitability for community service. She remanded the defendant in custody and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on December 9.