Retailer describes ‘profound’ impact of armed robberies on family and community
Flora Crowe, a Co. Clare shop owner, reveals how three armed robberies in just 10 days last October have shattered her family business, causing severe emotional trauma and eroding community trust
Print20 August 2024
Flora Crowe, a Co. Clare retailer, has reported that three armed robberies in the space of 10 days last October have deeply affected her family, staff, and the local community’s sense of safety.
Crowe, whose family business had never experienced a robbery in 40 years, described the impact as ‘profound’, according to the CSNA.
In court, Judge Francis Comerford sentenced Dylan Considine Kelly (23) to a three-year prison term with nine months suspended, resulting in a two-year-four-month sentence.
Considine Kelly had committed the robberies armed with various weapons, targeting Crowe’s shops on 14 and 21 October.
Judge Comerford acknowledged the terror these crimes caused.
Psychological toll
Crowe noted the severe emotional and psychological toll on her staff, leading to the resignation of two employees and the trauma experienced by others.
“Two of my dedicated staff members have resigned, unable to cope with the recurring threat of violence.”
Additionally, three others were so terrified by these incidents that they were unable to produce their own victim impact statements.
She highlighted how these incidents undermined trust and community spirit in Sixmilebridge, and described the ongoing fear she and her staff live under.
Crowe was pregnant at the time of the robberies, and it added to the real sense of fear that she had when it came to locking up each night until the suspect was caught.
Read more: CSNA and RGDATA highlight extent of shoplifting to Joint Oireachtas Committee
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