Theft, criminal damage, threats - one local man's summer spree
The incident left an employee at TK Maxx anxious and fearful.
A Waterford man wracked up a number of criminal offences across the city this summer.
Martin McGrath (42), of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 10 months in prison for theft, criminal damage and assault, contrary to Section 2 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.
On Tuesday, August 28, McGrath appeared in Waterford District Court before Judge Miriam Walsh.
Sergeant Michael Hickey gave an outline of the offending to the court.
On June 26, he stole two €50 notes from Clock Tower Cleaners. CCTV footage showed him walking past the counter and stealing the money from the till.
On July 16, he stole an e-scooter from a hotel room at Dooley's Hotel. On July 22, he stole a laptop and phone from a parked car on Lower Strand Street, Tramore. The items were valued at €1,500 and were later recovered.
On July 21, he committed property damage to Garter Lane Gallery, cracking a glass panel and causing damage of €300. On June 4, he committed assault by threatening to attack a staff member at TK Maxx.
Solicitor Ken Cunningham explained that his client had "polysubstance misuse" issues with alcohol and opiates, and has had difficult personal setbacks.
Judge Walsh asked Mr Cunningham if his client was working, to which he said no. Judge Walsh asked when was the last time he was in employment. He responded that he had worked in England some years ago.
Judge Walsh read aloud the victim impact statement from the staff member, commenting at the outset: "I'm going to read you a letter from someone who does work.
"This is someone who gets himself together and works bloody hard."
The letter detailed how the assault left the victim stressed, fearful and anxious, having to look over his shoulder in case of danger. He thanked the Gardaí for their help.
Judge Walsh said: "I'm sure this man has suffered in his own life. I'm sick to the back teeth of it all with this excuse being lashed out."
McGrath said to the Judge: "I apologise deeply to him." Judge Walsh responded: "How dare you."
