Young man turns to crime to finance drug habit

Johann Calleja, 26 of Fgura, was placed under a three-year probation after pleading guilty to drug possession. The court heard how the accused turned to drugs ten years ago following his father's passing, and is now dependent on cocaine.

On 20 February 2012, the accused was apprehended by police officers in Bormla. A search revealed he was in possession of a sachet containing cocaine. Calleja released a police statement admitting drug possession and told investigators he had stolen his sister's purse containing €380 which he spent in one day to buy cocaine. He also took her laptop and gave it to someone as a guarantee for lending him €150. The money was also used to buy more drugs.

Prosecuting Inspector Jurgen Vella told the court that Calleja had cooperated with the investigators and admitted his guilt. However the court noted the accused's police record which over the span of a single year now includes convictions of misappropriation, breach of bail conditions and other offences.

Over the same period of time Calleja has been handed a suspended jail term and served two terms of imprisonment. The inspector held that the young man's drug problems are the reason behind his criminal career. Calleja was also charged with relapsing.

Magistrate Natasha Galea Sciberras stated the accused is in dire need of help and an effective jail term will not be the solution to Calleja's problems. The accused was handed a three year probation. Upon hearing judgement, Calleja pledged to the court he will observe the court's orders and strive to change his ways.