Man who broke door of B&B 'frustrated' at being homeless

Patrick Maughan (20) was under "extraordinary pressure" when he caused the damage.

Judge John Brennan said it was an "unpleasant incident", but decided to give the accused "a chance" and applied the Probation Act.

Dublin District Court heard the incident happened at a B&B on Hollybrook Road, Clontarf, last October 3.

Gardai were called to the address where the accused had smashed a door while arguing with his partner. The value of the damage was €160.

Separately, Maughan admitted stealing €202 worth of cosmetics from Boots in Rathmines last January 15. He had no previous convictions.

Acrimony

Maughan was out of work and the family were in homeless accommodation, which "led to certain acrimony between the parties", defence solicitor Donal Quigley said.

They had an argument and, when leaving, Maughan broke the door.

He had been frustrated by his position and apologised.

He also regretted getting involved in the theft. In that case, another person was there who had a more significant role.

Maughan did not take anything himself, but "knew what was going on", Mr Quigley said.

"He wants to work, he wants to do something useful rather than sitting at home," the solicitor added.

Judge Brennan said the theft was not a victimless crime.

The goods were recovered by the store, but the owner of the B&B had not been compensated for the damage.

The judge applied the Probation Act on both charges, leaving Maughan with no convictions.