A mother of four went on a stealing spree from her employer after her husband hurt his shoulder and couldn’t return to work.
Marks and Spencer in Letterkenny.
Sinead Harkin, 37, was a highly-regarded member of staff with Marks and Spencer in Letterkenny.
However, when her husband dislocated his shoulder and couldn’t return to work, her family experienced financial difficulties.
Ms Harkin, from 13 Park View, Raphoe, appeared at Letterkenny District Court charged with stealing a total of €1,785 from the store on a total of eight different occasions.
Garda Stephen Moyles said management at Marks and Spencer noticed the till accounts did not tally up and viewed CCTV.
Upon viewing CCTV, Ms Harkin was observed taking various sums of money.
She was arrested and admitted what she had done.
The amounts of cash varied between €90 and €355.
Solicitor Donagh Cleary said his client was very remorseful and described it as a very unfortunate situation.
However Judge Paul Kelly said “There are many people who have difficulty in their lives but it does not justify stealing – particularly from an employer.”
The court also heard that the accused woman had the full amount , €1,785, in court which she had received for her family to be forwarded to her former employer.
Judge Kelly said he would like a probation and community service report on Ms Harkin and adjourned the case until February 2nd next.