Drug addict jailed after series of thefts

Nicholas Agius, 37 of Mosta, pleaded guilty to having stolen various items from computer shops and stationeries to finance his drug addiction.

Prosecuting inspector Robert Vella said that in the past three months the man stole mobile phones, speakers and a number of tablets and made away with a money-box that contained €10. He also stole two copies of a biography of Dom Mintoff from a shop in Mosta and attempted to sell them to a shop on the other side of the same street.

Magistrate Edwina Grima sentenced the man to one year in jail, and another two and a half years for breaching various suspended sentences.

The court also ordered that a probation officer follow Agius's progress to kick his habit. The Prison Director was asked to help the accused to join a rehabilitation programme.

Inspector Robert Vella prosecuted while legal aid lawyer Simon Micallef Stafrace appeared for the accused.