General manager pleads guilty
The general manager of a cinema in Dublin, Ireland, has admitted to stealing more than €217,000 ($240,000) from his employer, with most of the money gambled away on the lottery.
John Connolly admitted to stealing money from IMC Santry’s safe between April 2016 and July 2018 in Dublin’s Circuit Criminal Court. Connolly stole a total of €217,203 ($241,431) during this period.
admitted to stealing money from IMC Santry’s safe between April 2016 and July 2018
The court heard that the 38-year-old was drinking heavily at the time and suffering mental health issues. He believed he would be able to put the money back without anyone noticing it was gone in the first place.
Access to the main safe
At the time, Connolly was the general manager at IMC Santry. In order to open up the main safe, two keys were needed. One was held by Connolly and the other by a security firm.
The security company changed hands in 2016, which led to Connolly getting his hands on both keys and gaining access to the main safe.
Trail led back to Connolly
IMC directors noticed a shortfall between the cinema’s takings and bank lodgments in May 2018. The police were informed, which resulted in an investigation being launched.
The trail soon led back to Connolly, who quickly admitted what he had done when confronted. Detectives were able to track back to when the shortfalls began and noticed how it coincided with the change in security firms.
IMC directors noticed a shortfall between the cinema’s takings and bank lodgments in May 2018
The court heard that Connolly, who does not have any past criminal convictions, was not living lavishly and that he was constantly “chasing his tail” to try and repair the damage.
When interviewed by police, Connolly constantly apologized for what he had done. He also sent a formal letter of apology to his former employer. Letters were also sent from his family and former partner.
Remanded on bail
During the court hearing, Connolly’s defense outlined how he was subjected to a psychologically abusive childhood. They went on to outline Connolly’s struggle with gambling addiction, as well as his heavy drinking.
Sentencing was adjourned by Judge Karen O’Connor, with Connolly remanded on bail until February 28, 2020. This will allow time for probation and psychiatric reports to be prepared.
