Beach thief gets probation

A Freeport worker has been placed under probation after he pleaded guilty to stealing items, including bags and a mobile phone, from bathers at Għajn Tuffiegħa bay yesterday.

Roderick Tabone, 27, from Zurrieq, was arraigned by police Inspectors Nicholas Vella and Mark Mercieca this morning, charged with aggravated theft and receiving stolen goods. He was also charged with relapsing.

Magistrate Claire Louise Stafrace Zammit asked the prosecution and defence to approach the bench and after discussing the case out of earshot of the public. A guilty plea was registered.

Lawyer Marion Camilleri requested the court assist the man in treating his drug addiction, her colleague Franco Debono also pointing out to the court that the accused had cooperated fully with the police.

The court placed Tabone under a probation order for three years.