Il-Pele back in court

Joseph Cini, 47, known as Il-Pele was back in court today, accused of stealing jewellery, cash, electronic equipment and other items from the Mellieha residence of a family which was on holiday.

The theft allegedly took place on August 3.

Cini was arraigned along with his girlfriend Alexandra Dalmas, 43, who faces the same charges.

They were also accused of handling stolen property and damaging the house.

Cini on his own was accused of relapsing.

He was out on bail pending another case when this case allegedly happened.

Cini was subsequently arraigned and remanded in custody after breaching bail conditions. However he escaped prison last Friday and was recaptured yesterday, when he was taken in court and accused of the escape.

Both Cini and Dalmas today pleaded not guilty. Dalmas was granted bail against a deposit of €3,000.