Margaret Bergin (73) sentenced for theft of more than €270,000 in 28 years
A Co Laois grandmother who continued to draw down her father-in-law’s pension for 28 and a half years after his death has been jailed for two years.
Bergin , with an address at Fairfield House, Mountrath, Co Laois, had pleaded guilty to theft and larceny charges relating to her claiming father-in-law John Bergin’s pension after his death in 1993.Former HSE manager shared child sexual abuse images of ‘utmost depravity’ online, Mayo court hears The judge said the fact that Mr Bergin’s death had not been recorded showed there was an element of pre-meditation involved and noted that each year Bergin forged the signature of her late father-in-law so the pension continued to be paid.
Judge Johnson said the social welfare system was the cornerstone of a civilised society. It was designed to protect the most vulnerable in society and it was essential that its integrity was protected. He noted that she had expressed shame and a concern about her ability to cope if sent to prison. In a letter to the court she had said she was frightened and had at times felt like taking her own life. She had also suffered a number of significant health issues, the court heard, and suffered from a “chronic low mood over the last couple of months”.
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