Man convicted of burglary at popular charity shop

Fines and compensation totalling €1,300 must be paid by a man convicted of burglary from a charity shop in Kilkenny City.

Mariusz Lau, with an address of Aldi, Waterford Road, Kilkenny, was charged following a theft from the Oxfam charity shop on High Street, Kilkenny, on the night of October 11-12, 2024. He pleaded guilty.

The court heard that Mr Lau was a past employee of the shop. He used a key to enter and take a number of items.

Solicitor Ed Hughes said his client is now a manager with a local supermarket. He had no explanation why he went into the Oxfam shop.

Mr Lau took some low value items, the solicitor said.

His client is a man who is contributing to society and this is his ‘one blip.’

Judge Geraldine Carthy had previously ordered that €800 in compensation be paid to the Oxfam shop. It was confirmed this was done. Mr Lau was convicted and a fine of €500 imposed.