While police figures show a decline in burglaries locally anecdotal evidence suggests
an increase in house-breaking with thieves looking for gold jewellery which they can
then sell to firms offering to buy gold from the public.
With the recession, a growing number of people are unfortunately turing to a life of crime.
This gentleman was nabbed by Gardai and appeared in court today after being caught
attempting to break into an apartment block in the town centre.
In mitigation the court heard that he was of good character, had a previoiusly unblemished record,
had a wife, several elves and reindeer to support and millions of children around the world to
supply with presents. He had been vetted by police to work with children and had never been
in trouble before.
Giving him one chance, the judge said he should set a better example to the youngsters who
look up to him.
On leaving court, he was heard muttering Bah! Humbug! after finding a parking ticket on his sleigh
and the reindeers impounded.