Portlaoise man stole €3 notebook

A Portlaoise man has been given the probation act for stealing a notebook.

Paul Greene (21), Cois Na Habhainn, Portlaoise, was charged with theft.

Inspector Maria Conway gave evidence that on October 17, 2017, the accused entered News Express at Laois Shopping Centre, Portlaoise, and stole a black notebook from a display table.

He was seen on CCTV and made admissions when arrested.

The accused had a number of previous convictions, but none for theft.

Defence, Mr Barry Fitzgerald said that his client had just become a father for the third time, which seemed to have triggered a change in his attitude.

Defence said the accused had written a letter of apology and would be able to pay €3 for the notebook.

However, Judge Catherine Staines said he would need to have to more than €3 and directed the accused to pay €20. The accused paid the money and Judge Staines applied the probation act.