A thief was given a chance yesterday after he handed over £3,000 to compensate his victims. John O'Shea, Farran Street, Cork, admitted stealing two laptops valued at over £3,000 from O'Sheas Electrical, over £3,000 from Heffernans Travel, and £3,900 from a solicitor's office.
Judge Patrick Moran was told that O'Shea (34) had a gambling addiction for which he was getting help through Gamblers Anonymous. He had a full-time job for the first time in his life and was providing for his partner and child. The judge postponed sentencing until October.