Man stole Laois supermarket worker’s groceries two days before Christmas

In an act described as “horrible” by a judge, a man stole a supermarket worker's groceries the day before Christmas eve. 

Micheal Dwane (43) of 31 Gort Na Nóir, Abbeyleix, pleaded guilty to the theft of two shopping bags valued at €100 at Tesco in Portlaoise on December 23, 2025. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the incident occurred at 3.45 pm at the customer service area. “The injured party’s groceries were there until she finished her shift. He took the groceries and left the store,” he said. Sgt Kirby said the groceries were valued at €100 and the defendant had ten previous convictions. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was pleading guilty and had brought a letter of apology. 

“It was a mean act, taking groceries on somebody who was finishing work,” said Ms Fitzpatrick. 

She said her client, who previously had a reliance on alcohol, had brought €100 to court. She said he had drink taken at the time and was now pleading guilty at the earliest opportunity. 

“In the cold light of day he wouldn’t have done that,” she said. 

Judge Susan Fay said “this was a really horrible incident”. She said supermarket staff provide an essential service which became clear during the Covid pandemic. “They don’t earn a huge amount of money,” she said. 

She ordered restorative justice and referred the man to the Alternative Project. She granted legal aid and remanded the defendant on bail to appear again before Portlaoise District Court for finalisation on May 11.