Burglar with 80 previous convictions avoids jail term after judge is satisfied with effort to rehabilitate

A serial burglar who was allowed celebrate his birthday before sentencing has received a suspended prison term. Darren Coffey (35) received a three-year sentence which was suspended in full in light of his efforts to rehabilitate himself. Judge Mary Ellen Ring had previously agreed to a request by Coffey to adjourn sentencing until after his birthday on October 28th. “Just don’t celebrate too much, and continue on the path you are on, because otherwise we will fall out, Mr Coffey,” she said.

Judge Ring warned Coffey, who has 80 previous convictions for burglary, that he is now in a dangerous profession after recent changes in legislation. She said it was only a matter of time before someone like him walks into a residence and is seriously injured or killed, as there may be an armed homeowner waiting on the other side of that “inviting balcony”.