Police fear drug addiction could eventually kill homeless man

A homeless drug addict who “had no idea what he was doing” when he was found carrying 21 litres of stolen fuel was yesterday jailed for one year.

Ivan Galea, 37, stole the fuel from a Caterpillar truck at about 1 a.m. on Thursday in Qormi and when the police searched him they found seven sachets of cocaine and heroin, Police Inspector Anthony Portelli said.

Mr Galea had such a serious drug problem that one day the police would probably find him dead, the prosecuting officer added.

Legal aid lawyer Henry Antoncich said that when he was caught carrying the fuel Mr Galea had no idea what he was doing because of his drug addiction.

In handing down judgment, Magistrate Jacqueline Padovani noted the accused had a 26-page- long criminal record.

Shortly after this arraignment, he appeared in court again and Police Inspector Pierre Grech accused him of possessing drugs in circumstances denoting they were not for his exclusive use.

Mr Galea admitted to simple possession but denied that the drugs were not intended for his exclusive use.

The case continues.