Probation for alcohol thief

A Rabat man was yesterday given a two-year jail term suspended for three years and put on probation for three years after he admitted to stealing alcoholic beverages from a night club in his home town.

Carmel Micallef, 28, pleaded guilty to stealing the alcoholic drinks from Tattingers Night Club in the early hours on Monday morning.

On handing down judgement Magistrate Jacqueline Padovani Grima noted that Mr Micallef had returned the stolen items and was willing to pay for the damage caused.

The magistrate warned him that she was giving him a suspended jail term and placing him under the care of a probation officer to ensure this was the first and last time he broke the law.

She told him to think of the probation officer as his guardian angel who would ensure that he stayed in line.

Police Inspector Roland Cassar prosecuted.

Lawyer Patrick Valentino was defence counsel.