Two burglars caught red-handed thanks to alert off-duty policeman

A 52-year-old man and his son, 23, were yesterday jailed for a total of seven years and nine months after an off-duty policeman caught them stealing from a house last year.

Joseph Polidano and his son Justin were spotted by PC Emanuel Mamo near a house in Żurrieq and he immediately called the police station for back-up. Officers from the mobile squad arrived, surrounded the house and caught the two leaving the house carrying a bag containing household items.

Magistrate Jacqueline Padovani jailed the son for four years and three months while his father was imprisoned for three years and six months.

The court also brought into force a suspended jail term in Justin Polidano's regard, bringing his total jail time up to five years.

The magistrate noted that Justin Polidano was given various opportunities to turn his life around but failed to take heed.

Police Inspector Carlos Cordina prosecuted.

Lawyers Josè Herrera and Veronique Dalli appeared for the men.