Jail time for Limerick shoplifter with over 200 previous convictions

A serial offender came before the District Court

Published 23rd Jul 2026, 07:00 BST The court heard the stolen goods remain unrecovered | FILE PHOTO A serial offender came before the District Court Sign up to our Limerick Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Limerick Live within your account.

A WOMAN with almost 300 previous convictions has been jailed for three thefts.

Limerick District Court heard that Mary Ryan, aged 44, with an address at Sherwood Estate, Newcastle West, stole €325 worth of goods from Holland and Barrett’s at the Crescent Shopping Centre on August 13, 2025.

Ms Ryan also stole €169 worth of goods from Sally’s Hair Shop on Thomas Street on September 10, 2025, and €285 worth of goods from Home Store and More at City East Business Park on October 14, 2025.

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Prosecuting Sergeant Jimmy Dillane told Judge Patricia Harney that Ms Ryan has 292 previous convictions, including 173 previous section four thefts, four instances of making off without payment, seven for handling stolen property, seven for burglary and 63 under the road traffic act.

Solicitor Michael O’Donnell, representing Ms Ryan, told the court that Ms Ryan is currently serving a prison sentence imposed in Waterford, and her release date is in January 2028.

The solicitor said in fairness to her, she has been suffering from addiction.

Mr O’Donnell expressed to the court on the woman’s behalf that she is very sorry for the harm caused. The solicitor stated that Ms Ryan is now doing quite well.

Judge Harney convicted and sentenced Ms Ryan to a four months’ imprisonment for one of the thefts, and took the other two thefts into consideration in her sentencing.