Addict admits to stealing Community Chest Fund collection boxes

A pilferer of charity collection boxes has been placed on probation and ordered to complete a drug rehabilitation programme.

Jason Gatt, 37, from Paola admitted to having stolen four Malta Community Chest Fund collection boxes from shops in Fgura, Tarxien and Cospicua between 13 and 18 December. He was also charged with having escaped from the Paola police station on the 19th.

Prosecuting police inspector Chantelle Casha explained that the man had been captured on CCTV in the act of taking the boxes. The man also had previous convictions for theft, the inspector added.

Gatt's defence lawyer, Yanika Bugeja, said that the accused had a substance abuse problem and was seeking help. She suggested a probation and treatment order, adding that the accused was eager to start rehab.

“This is not a frequent offender” highlighted the lawyer, after pointing out that his last conviction was in 2010.

Magistrate Claire-Louise Stafrace explained to the accused that although there was a waiting time of around a month to be admitted to a drug rehabilitation programme, he would receive any medical assistance necessary in the meantime.

The court initially seemed to be leaning towards imposing a suspended sentence and a supervision order, but Gatt's lawyer successfully argued that the crimes didn't merit a possible custodial sentence hanging over him for three years.

“The theft is simple theft, not aggravated,” the lawyer said, adding that the crime was “actually banal and stupid.” His suspended sentence might make it difficult for him to find work because it would be reflected on his criminal record, she said. “He deserves a second chance. He has the will to undergo a drug rehab programme...the previous conviction was in 2010, but the previous crime took place some 7 years ago.”

The court said it felt it would be giving him a chance by imposing a suspended sentence, that he needed a graver deterrent, noting a recent spike in numbers of breached probation orders.

“He has a serious problem. To steal collection boxes full of one cent coins you must be stupid...I wouldn't waste my energy fighting for someone who doesn't want to reform himself.”

The court, having seen the charges and the guilty plea, found Gatt guilty and placed him under probation for three years, also imposing a treatment order for that period. The court warned the accused that he faced a fine of over €1,000, “amongst other repercussions,” if he in any way breached the probation order.