Addict jailed for burglary

A SELF-CONFESSED drugs and drink addict was given a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence yesterday after he admitted entering a 21-year-old barman’s apartment, tying him up, gagging him and stealing cash.

P J McDonagh, aged 35, of 10 Ardmore Park, Waterford, pleaded guilty at Waterford Circuit Court to committing aggravated burglary at Clanwilliam Court, Waterford, on October 16, 2004. The court heard from Detective Garda Seamus Halpin that Simon Watchorn, aged 21, a barman in Dooley’s Hotel at the time, was at home on his own at 5pm on a Saturday afternoon when he heard a knock on the door. Assuming it was one of his neighbours, he opened the door, but was confronted by two men carrying knives and wearing balaclavas.

The men forced him back into the apartment before tying him up and gagging his mouth with socks. They then proceeded to take cash — about €400 in coins which were all bagged, and €250 in notes — as well as six Samurai swords from a collection owned by Mr Watchorn and his flat-mate.

Before leaving, the burglars dumped the injured party in a bathroom. He eventually freed himself and contacted the gardaí.

Det Halpin said one of the men involved was the accused, McDonagh, who had 18 previous convictions. He agreed with Mark Flynn, defending, that the accused had severe alcohol and drug problems at the time. The detective also agreed McDonagh played the lesser role in the incident. His co-accused has already been given a three-year prison sentence. McDonagh apologised for the offence.

Judge Rory MacCabe imposed a sentence of two years and six months.