Thief given last chance to mend his ways

A man has been put on probation for three years after he admitted to stealing cash, scratch cards, cheques and top-up vouchers from a lotto receiver's car.

Anthony Zammit admitted to stealing two bags containing cash and other items, worth less than €2,329, from the car. He also admitted to relapsing on August 23 at about 6 p.m.

Mr Zammit had been charged together with Alfred Bugeja, known as Il-Porporina, who is contesting the charges brought against him.

On handing down judgement, Magistrate Joseph Apap Bologna noted that Mr Zammit had previous convictions that included drug trafficking but, on the other hand, he had collaborated with the police and helped them find the stolen items in this case.

After evaluating the circumstances of the case, the magistrate decided to give Mr Zammit a last chance to change his ways and put him on probation for three years.

Police Inspectors Joseph Mercieca and Robert Vella prosecuted.

Lawyer Roberto Montalto represented Mr Zammit.