Relapsing thief gets suspended sentence

Glenn Debattista, 54, of Sliema who had previously been convicted of theft of jewellery, was conditionally discharged for three years after admitting to stealing from Spotless Supermarket.

He was also charged with committing an offense during the term of two suspended sentences and relapsing.

Prosecuting inspector Bernard Charles Spiteri explained how on 15 September 2010 and previous weeks, the accused stole various items from two supermarkets in Balzan. The majority of the items were toiletries including a large quantity of shaving blades.

Taking into consideration the medical and health conditions of the accused's mother and partner, Magistrate Carol Peralta held an effective jail term would not be a solution. The court also noted the three years taken for the proceedings. "Such lengthy proceedings cannot be justified given the simple nature of such offence", the Magistrate held.

Debattista, who is currently undergoing a number of proceedings over separate charges, was conditionally discharged for three years.

Inspector Bernard Charles Spiteri prosecuted, while lawyer Noel Bianco appeared for the accused.