Cork crime: Addiction, poverty, and trauma driving women into prison

More women are being jailed for theft, addiction, and trauma-linked crimes, while overcrowded jails hinder real rehabilitation, writes Ann Murphy
Cork crime: Addiction, poverty, and trauma driving women into prison

Rising numbers of women in Cork are being jailed for theft linked to trauma, addiction and poverty, sparking calls for reform and alternatives to prison.

Against the noisy backdrop of the district court in Cork city, incidents of theft of items such as groceries, clothing, toys, alcohol, and cosmetics are detailed day after day by prosecuting gardaí. 

In response, defence lawyers relate stories of addiction, trauma, and poverty as reasons why the offenders turned to crime to get such items from outlets including Penneys, SuperValu stores, pharmacies, and other main street shops.

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