Man with 100 convictions went on ‘spree of offending’ in Waterford
Reid was understood to have 100 previous convictions.
A 49-year-old man, who went on a 'spree of offending' in Waterford, appeared in court recently.
Shay Reid, of Moyne House, Grattan Quay, Waterford, appeared in late 2025 at the District Court of Appeal.
The court heard that he had 100 previous convictions going back to 2012, including charges for theft and burglary.
On March 21, 2023, Reid was seen picking up a mobile phone at a Circle K store and making off with the item.
On April 7, 2023, Gardaí conducted a search warrant on his home and recovered €550 worth of heroin. On October 31, 2023, Reid stole €50 worth of alcohol from Supervalu, a charge that was later taken into consideration.
On January 21, 2024, he stole a bag containing a laptop and an iPhone worth €1,600 from Garter Lane, O’Connell Street. The items were later recovered. Five days later, he stole alcohol from the function room of the Tower Hotel, a charge that was taken into consideration. He was later charged with theft contrary to Section 4 and was given a 10-month prison sentence from Waterford District Court.
On August 8, 2024, Reid was caught committing theft at Aldi in The Glen and was identified by CCTV. On August 10, he was charged with simple possession of heroin valued at €25. On June 29, 2024, he stole €10 worth of goods at a Centra store.
Gardaí recovered €667 worth of diamorphine from Reid on September 25, 2024. He received a 10-month sentence from the District Court.
In total, Reid received a 20-month imprisonment.
At the Court of Appeal, defence counsel Tara Geoghegan BL admitted that her client was on a "spree of offending" during this period but it was linked to substance and alcohol misuse. Ms Geoghegan said he had "very little recollection" of his crimes.
The court heard that Reid was engaging positively with his probation service and had linked in with a rehabilitation programme.
Reid’s 20-month sentence was suspended and he was ordered to continue his rehabilitation treatment and to keep the peace for two years.
Judge Christopher Callan told Reid: "You know you must take whatever chance you are given."
