Michael McDonagh Jailed for Bank Card Thefts and Fraud

A 46-year-old man has received an eight-and-a-half-month prison sentence for stealing bank cards from vehicles and subsequently using them fraudulently. Michael McDonagh, who has no fixed abode, admitted guilt to two charges of theft from a motor vehicle and three charges of fraud by false representation. He was sentenced to 36 weeks in prison during his appearance at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. PC Paul Bezzant, representing Wiltshire Police, stated: “McDonagh is a prolific offender and I’m pleased he now faces time behind bars for his crimes.” McDonagh was apprehended in Swindon town centre on Monday, approximately at 09:30 GMT. A report of a vehicle theft in the town centre had been made on Sunday evening, and a similar incident took place on Cricklade Road on 13 November. Police connected McDonagh to the fraudulent use of stolen bank cards at the Applegreen Petrol Station located on Great Western Way. PC Bezzant urged drivers to ensure their vehicles are secure and to avoid leaving any items visible. He advised: “Please don’t make your vehicle an easy target for thieves. Always remember to lock your vehicle, even if you are leaving it only for seconds. It only takes a moment for it to be stolen. Don’t leave items such as Christmas presents, or valuables like laptops, mobile phones, handbags, credit cards or cheque books in your car. Leave absolutely nothing on show.” For updates, follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be sent via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not accountable for the content of external sites. Details on their approach to external linking are available.