A WOMAN who stole €300 worth of cosmetics from Lidl had 17 previous convictions, 10 under the theft act, last week’s district court heard.

Michaela O’Connor (34) with an address at Church Street, Clara committed the offense on July 1, 2022.

She had previously received a suspended sentence. Judge Andrew Cody said that this latest offense was a triggering offense as it had taken place on July 1, 2022 within the timeframe of the previous suspended sentence.

Her solicitor Donal Farrelly said the defender had been living up north at the time of the offense.

He said her fiance had died and her mother had also died. Ms O’Connor had been on medication for post traumatic stress disorder and is now returning home to Clara.

She had brought a sum of €300 to court which she had put together. Her father was in the court with her, Mr Farrelly said.

She had come through a very difficult time and hopefully she will be living back with her father.

Judge Andrew Cody said that suspended sentences don’t seem to be making any difference.

He imposed a nine month sentence which he suspended for five years but warned her if she comes back here after, ”putting her fingers in any till” she will serve the nine months.

”You needn’t be smiling about it,” he told her. Ms O’Connor said ”no I understand.”

She is due back at Castlerea Court on Friday September 2, 2023 and she was remanded on bail on her own bond until then.