Woman pleads guilty in Donegal court to stealing power washer and clothes in Sligo

A woman charged with stealing a power washer and clothing from shops in County Sligo has pleaded guilty to the offences.

Kathleen Ward appeared before Donegal Town District Court.

The 28-year-old, of New Glen View Park, Ash Lane, Sligo was charged with offences on March 30, 2026 and July 24, 2024.

Garda Ryan Porter gave evidence that he arrested Ward on March 31, 2026 at 8.02pm. Ward made no reply, the court heard.

Ward was conveyed to Sligo Garda Station where she was cautioned after being charge and again she made no reply.

An active bench warrant was discovered by officers in relation to a non-appearance at Sligo District Court in October 2025, relating to a theft in July 2024.

Mr Gerry McGovern, solicitor for Ward, said his client would be pleading guilty.

Ward was charged with stealing a power washer, valued at €109.99, from Whiteside’s SuperValu, Ballisodare, Co Sligo, on July 24, 2024.

She was also charged with stealing €70 worth of clothing from Dunnes Stores, Cranmore Road, Sligo, on March 30, 2026.

Both charges are contrary to section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001.

Ward was put on her election and spoke only to confirm that she wished for the matters to be dealt with in the District Court and to enter guilty pleas in respect of both charges.

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham remanded Ward on bail in her own bond of €200 nil cash. Ward was told to stay out of Whiteside’s SuperValu and Dunnes Stores, Cranmore Road. She was ordered to commit no further offences and be of good behaviour and to be contactable 24/7 on a telephone number provided to Gardai.

The court heard that the clothing items were recovered and Mr McGovern said his client hoped to have the money in court on the next occasion to compensate the shop for the loss of the power washer.

Judge Cunningham adjourned the case to April 23, 2026.