Cork woman jailed for dangerous driving that caused death of friend released from prison 18 months early

It is understood overcrowding within the prison system, particularly in the women’s facilities in Limerick Prison and the Dóchas Centre, was a factor in why Jennifer Thomas was granted release

The court was told Jennifer Thomas had driven after drinking 12 alcoholic beverages on the day of the incident. Picture: Dan Linehan

A former model who was sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing the death of her friend has been released from prison almost 18 months early.

Jennifer Thomas, 48, of 10 Oakfield View, Glanmire, Cork, was sentenced in November 2024 to five years, with the last year suspended, after she pleaded guilty to driving in a manner that was dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of 50-year-old Sheila Dunne at Sarsfields Court on February 11, 2023.