Man in court for burgling popular Portlaoise pub
‘This was a horrible offence that had a significant impact on the victim’
A man was convicted of burgling a well known Main Street pub in Portlaoise.
James O’Donnell (47) of 67 St Brigids Place, Portlaoise appeared in court accused of burgling Grellan Delaney and Sons, Main Street, Portlaoise on July 30, 2025.
Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said a number of reports had been completed in relation to her client. She said a victim impact statement, restorative justice and a probation report were ordered in the case. The man had also donated €200 to St Vincent de Paul as part of the restorative justice process, she said.
Ms Fitzpatrick said her client’s background was in barbering and hairdressing and she said he would like to carry out community service.
Ms Fitzpatrick said her client is engaging with the community alcohol and drug service.
Judge Susan Fay said “he was deemed not suitable and that is that.”
“This was a horrible offence that had a significant impact on the victim,” said Judge Fay.
“This was the people’s home. They live in situ,” she noted.
“It was a shed door I opened,” the man replied.
Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby described it as a “very nasty” offence.
“That man is trying to run a business. He is a very good businessman, a decent man,” said Sgt Kirby.
Judge Fay noted the accused had shown genuine remorse and had made a donation to St Vincent de Paul. She granted legal aid in the case.
Judge Fay imposed a five month sentence which she suspended for two years on condition that the man engages with addiction services and undergoes probation supervision for as long as is deemed necessary by the probation services.