Prolific thieves are remanded in custody

Antonella Vella, 29 of Fgura, and her partner Stephen Borg, 35 of Birkirkara, both having serious drug issues, were remanded in custody after pleading not guilty to a total of 39 charges.

The couple are charged with the theft of three vehicles, attempted theft of another three cars and a garage, eight thefts of car stereos and other items and 16 charges of damaging private property.

They were also accused of handling stolen property, having in their possession tools used to force locks open, and breaching three suspended sentences each.

Prosecuting inspector James Grech told the court that the accused will never get the help they need if they are allowed to stay on the street, and suggested that the court forces the couple to seek help and kick the habit that was forcing them into a life of crime.

But upon hearing the police inspector object to granting them bail, Borg interjected, telling the court: "I won't learn anything in prison. I need a rehab programme."

But Grech said that Borg "emerged a better man" each time he was jailed.

Magistrate Audrey Demicoli remanded in custody both the accused and ordered that they are given all necessary help to start a rehabilitation programme. Inspectors James Grech, Roderick Agius and Spiridione Zammit prosecuted. Legal aid lawyer Simon Micallef Stafrace appeared for the accused.