Man in Kildare court over thefts from Aldi store

A man has appeared at Naas District court in connection with thefts from an Aldi store.

Trevor Johnston, 33, whose address was given as 42 Cushlawn Walk, Tallaght, was prosecuted for incidents on September 13, 2023 and on April 21, 2023 at the outlet in Blessington.

Sgt Mary Meade told the court that two suspects were involved on September 13. She said some €193 worth of groceries were taken and all points of payment in the store were passed and the items were not paid for.

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The court also heard that the goods were recovered.

On the second occasion two bottles of Jameson whiskey valued at €60 were taken and these were not recovered.

Sgt Meade outlined that the defendant was identified from CCTV images.

She added he has 79 previous convictions, including 38 for theft. His first conviction was in 2007.

Defending solicitor Brian Larkin was the defendant was  now in custody and had a drug habit.

“He’s putting his hands up,” added Mr Larkin.

The court was told he was serving a term for theft and trespass, an incident described as being at the lower end of the scale of offending.

Mr Larkin asked the court not to extend the defendant's term of detention adding “he is now drug free.”

He also stated the defendant had three children.

Asked by Judge Desmond Zaidan if he would remain drug free and out of trouble the defendant replied: “Of course I will; that’s the plan.”

Judge Zaidan applied the Probation Act.