Thief earns court's mercy

A 22-year-old man found guilty of theft was yesterday placed under probation for three years instead of being jailed after a court heard that he had made good progress in his efforts to kick a drug habit.

Constantino Gouder of Valletta was convicted of stealing over €2,330 (Lm1,000) in cash and other objects from a residence in Mosta. He was also found guilty of relapsing in January 2007.

The court, presided over by Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera, took into consideration the testimony of Ray Grech, a representative from Sedqa, the drug rehabilitation agency.

Mr Grech told the court that Mr Gouder had completed a residential drug rehabilitation programme. He had made considerable improvement and the agency was very satisfied with his progress.

The court said that it felt Mr Gouder was genuine in his determination to kick the habit and should be given another chance to reintegrate into society.

Although he had been found guilty of the charges brought against him, he should not be jailed as the offences merit.

For these reasons Mr Gouder was placed under probation for three years.

Lawyers Joseph Giglio and Stephen Tonna Lowell appeared for Mr Gouder.