Former Caretaker Admits to Stealing €11,000 in Laptops

A former caretaker has acknowledged stealing over €11,000 worth of laptops from his previous employer, the College of Further Education and Training in Limerick, to support his cocaine addiction. Keith Sheedy, aged 49, was remanded on bail for sentencing after pleading guilty to one count of theft involving 22 laptops. The theft occurred between October 24, 2022, and November 11, 2022.

The court learned that the theft was uncovered when a staff member noticed two laptops missing during a routine stock check. A review of CCTV footage revealed Sheedy leaving the premises carrying a black bag filled with the stolen devices. Law enforcement was alerted, leading to a court warrant being issued to search Sheedy’s home. While nothing of evidential value was found, Sheedy ultimately admitted to possessing two of the stolen laptops, valued at a combined €1,094, which he had stored in the boot of his car. The remaining 20 laptops have not been recovered.

In court, prosecuting barrister John O’Sullivan stated that Sheedy had accumulated debt due to his cocaine addiction, exacerbated by personal tragedies within his family. Sheedy reportedly claimed to have targeted the college due to grievances with a colleague.

Sheedy’s defense attorney, Erin O’Hagan, shared that her client had experienced a significant decline after his carpentry business failed due to his substance abuse issues. She indicated that he had sought treatment multiple times and was currently alcohol and drug free. O’Hagan emphasized Sheedy’s estrangement from his family and noted that he was now in a new relationship and employment.

During the hearing, O’Hagan characterized Sheedy’s descent into addiction as a result of severe personal loss, stating, “His addiction took over his life and he accepts it is not an excuse. It was a breach of trust and he took advantage of his employer.” She also mentioned that he was willing to repay the stolen amount at €150 per week.

Judge Colin Daly indicated that a community service order might be imposed instead of a prison sentence, contingent on Sheedy’s suitability for such an arrangement. The judge has postponed sentencing until November 19, 2023.