A MARRIED Ukrainian couple pleaded guilty to the theft of goods totalling more than €850 in two separate incidents in Letterkenny.
Vira Butenko (29), Down Yonder, Rosses Point, Sligo, and Dmytro Limanskyi (34), Harris Guest House, Trimragh, both pleaded guilty to the theft of groceries totalling €605.17 from Dunnes Stores, Oldtown, Letterkenny on November 15.
The couple also pleaded guilty to household items worth €250 from Penneys, Letterkenny, on October 1, 2024.
An interpreter was present in court to relay proceedings as the charges were put to them.
Sergeant Maurice Doyle said both defendants were compliant with gardaí and neither have previous convictions.
Solicitor Rory O’Brien said: “My clients are a married couple from Ukraine. They had recently relocated. What was stolen was effectively food and household items. They have pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, and are genuinely sorry.”
Judge Éiteáin Cunningham said she was concerned regarding the loss of revenue to local businesses.
“These are not small thefts,” she said. “I want to direct a probation and welfare report. They have only been in Donegal three months, I think it is important they are guided on what is expected.
“I am concerned these are not minor matters. There is a loss to businesses.”
The matter was adjourned until March 24, 2025 for the completion of the probation and welfare report.
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