Thief's father applauds judgment

A man yesterday applauded a magistrate after she handed down a conditional discharge to his son who admitted to stealing from his former employer.

Charles Farrugia, 31, pleaded guilty to stealing €120 in cash and a further €120 of polishing materials from Seca Electroplating Ltd between October 14 and 19.

Magistrate Audrey Demicoli conditionally discharged him for three years after taking into consideration that he admitted to the thefts immediately and the money had been returned.

Upon hearing this, Mr Farrugia's father, Lawrence, clapped and then made a quick exit.

Magistrate Demicoli called Mr Farrugia back into the courtroom and, on being prompted by his lawyer, he excused his actions with the words: "Sorry but I have never been to court before".

During yesterday's proceedings, Police Inspector Nikolai Sant exhibited several photos and CCTV footage of Mr Farrugia stealing the money and items.