Addict sent to prison for robbing 1,000 tablets from Douglas pharmacy

The court heard that the man from Youghal carried out the robbery to clear a drug debt

The court heard that Ross Pardy produced a kitchen knife in the pharmacy during the robbery, but did not brandish it. File photo

A 38-year-old man who carried out the robbery of 1,000 tablets from a pharmacy in Douglas now faces approximately one year in prison.

Ross Pardy of Redbarn holiday cottages, Youghal, County Cork, was sentenced on the charge which states that at Lynch’s pharmacy Broadale, Maryborough Hill, Douglas, Cork, he carried out the robbery of 1000 Amitriptyline tablets valued €140 on February 28.

Judge James McCourt said that Garda Ian Lester had given very fair evidence in the case that Ross Pardy produced a kitchen knife during the robbery but he did not brandish it.

“Obviously we can’t have people going around producing weapons in pharmacies or places of business with impunity.

“I cannot ignore your previous convictions. The number at 182 is just a number but I am concerned with the production of knives and assault in the past.

To go into a pharmacy and place the individual, who is trying to run the shop, in fear is an aggravating factor.

“I accept your remorse is genuine and that you have significant addiction issues. These crimes were motivated by the need to clear a drug debt which is an external pressure.” 

Garda Ian Lester said that an accomplice in a getaway car outside the premises is due before the court on a later date.

Judge McCourt said to the accused: “When you saw the CCTV you readily admitted it was you. You have shown a degree of insight and remorse. You need significant help. I also take into account the predicament of your partner (who has health issues).” 

The judge imposed a sentence of 23 months with the last six months suspended and backdated to June 14 to take account of time served.

Senior counsel, Jane Hyland, said that as a much younger man the defendant’s life spiralled out of control when his brother died in his sleep from natural causes.