Prison for dad who stole to feed his child
A MAN who stole groceries to feed himself and his young child three months after he committed a similar offence has been sentenced to two months in prison.
Jason Halpin (43) was initially assessed by the Probation Services to see if he was suitable to complete community service work in lieu of a prison sentence.
However, he was unsuccessful, leaving Judge David McHugh no option but to send him to prison when he appeared before Blanchardstown District Court.
"I had considered suspending the sentence, but he committed a similar offence three months ago," said Judge McHugh after he was informed of Halpin's unsuitability for community service work.
Halpin, of Corduff Grove, Corduff, pleaded guilty to the theft of €111.92 worth of groceries from Dunnes Stores in Ongar Village last February 24.
Gda Paul O'Rourke said Halpin, who has 15 previous convictions, took the groceries and left the store without paying for them. They were recovered.
Defence solicitor John O'Doherty said Halpin is a lone parent with one child.
"He took the groceries for himself and his child. They were necessary items," said Mr O'Doherty, who asked the judge to "be as lenient as possible".
Judge McHugh imposed the sentence, but fixed recognisances in the event of an appeal.