Cork man sentenced to six months for shoplifting and public order offences

Angus Clement, a 45‑year‑old man from Cork’s Simon Community, was sentenced to six months in prison for a series of shoplifting and public order offences.

According to solicitor Eddie Burke, Clement’s offending began around age 40 after his alcohol addiction escalated. He had previously held a number of jobs before his drinking led to criminal behaviour.

At the time of sentencing, Clement had 42 prior convictions, including 13 under Section 4 for being drunk and a danger to himself or others, one for threatening behaviour and 20 for theft.

Clement pleaded guilty to the latest offences, which included the theft of a card that was recovered shortly after being taken and was not used for purchases. Judge David Waters back‑dated the six‑month sentence to 25 September.

Burke described Clement as “the black sheep of the family,” noting his recent hospital admission for stomach issues linked to alcohol and his current treatment with Librium. He added that Clement appeared much improved since his arrest and caused no difficulty while in custody.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels.