Mother stole vodka for night out

Mother stole vodka for planned night out


A mother of one pleaded guilty to stealing two bottles of vodka from a supermarket at Ballina District Court last week. Emma Pinel of 5, St Muredach’s Terrace was arrested on April 20, last after management in Dunnes Stores reported to Gardaí that the young mother stole two 300ml bottles of Smirnoff vodka worth a total of €23. Ms Pinel who has no previous convictions admitted that she took the items.
Defending solicitor Peter Loftus said his client had made arrangements for her child to stay the night with the child’s father as Ms Pinel had a night out planned with friends and had set aside money for the night. However, the court heard that Ms Pinel’s partner had taken the money and spent it, resulting in her taking the vodka out of ‘foolishness’.
Mr Loftus said his client was ashamed of her conduct. Judge Mary Devins said she couldn’t deem two bottles of vodka as necessities. Mr Loftus agreed with the judge saying he could not deem the vodka to ‘be like groceries or nappies’.
“She saw the opportunity and took it,” concluded Loftus.
Judge Devins remanded Ms Pinel on continuing bail, adjourning the case for sentencing until November 23 next.