A 46-year-ancient woman with no fixed address has had her prison sentence altered following a burglary at Scoozi’s restaurant in Cork city. Margaret Foley initially received a seven-month sentence at Cork District Court after pleading guilty to the crime.
Sentence Adjustment
Following an appeal to the Cork Circuit Appeals Court, Judge Sinéad Behan increased the sentence to 12 months, but suspended the final six months. This results in a one-month reduction in jail time. Concurrent six-month sentences for multiple shoplifting offenses remain in effect.
The burglary occurred at 6.55am on November 1, 2024, at Scoozi’s restaurant on Winthrop Street. According to Sergeant John Kelleher, Foley entered through a doorway left open for deliveries and stole cash, bank cards, and cigarettes belonging to restaurant employees. The stolen property has not been recovered.
Addiction and Offending
During the appeal, Margaret Foley’s barrister, John Colthurst, cited her addiction to crack cocaine, heroin, and alcohol as contributing factors to the offending. He requested leniency, stating the crimes were tied to her substance abuse.
Between November 2024 and August 2025, Foley also committed shoplifting offenses at several locations in Cork City, including Spar on Patrick Street, Elvery Sports on Oliver Plunkett Street, Dunnes at Merchants Quay, North Face on Patrick Street, Centra on Oliver Plunkett Street, and Boots pharmacy on Patrick Street.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original sentence for the burglary?
Margaret Foley was originally sentenced to seven months in jail at Cork District Court.
What is the condition of the suspended sentence?
If Margaret Foley commits any offenses within the next 18 months, the six-month suspended portion of her sentence could be activated.
What other crimes did Margaret Foley commit?
Between November 2024 and August 2025, Margaret Foley committed multiple shoplifting offenses at six different stores in Cork City.
What role do addiction and mental health play in addressing cycles of crime and re-offending?
