Assistant manager admits stealing from Laois shop

An assistant manager has admitted stealing from a shop in Portlaoise. 

Joanne Cantwell (39) of 21 Lake Glade, Kilminchy, Portlaoise, admitted taking cigarettes valued at €272 from Spar, Kilminchy, Portlaoise on December 1, 2024. She also took groceries on dates on January 6, 13, 15, 17 and 21 with a total value of €65.65 and  groceries on February 6, 7, 9 and 10, 2025 valued at €70.98. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was pleading guilty to all of the matters. He said his client had brought €100 to court and there had been an “element  of financial desperation” to the offending.  

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said there had been a number of thefts from the shop. He said the defendant had two minor previous convictions for road traffic offences. 

Mr Fitzgerald said his client was in court with €100 and a letter of apology to the shop owner. “She was a trusted member of staff,” he said, explaining that the woman had been an assistant manager. 

He said his client was “deeply embarrassed” but had gotten herself into a situation financially. 

“There was a meeting in work and she accepted her wrongdoing,” he said. 

Judge Susan Fay ordered a probation report, referred the matter for restorative justice and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on March 16 for compensation.