A young man who stole €950 from car wash machines at a Fgura fuel station was placed under a probation order after pleading guilty.
Patrick Pullicino, 21, of Xgħajra, was accused of breaking open the pay machines while wearing a balaclava on Sunday night.
However, Police inspector Spiridione Zammit said Mr Pullicino returned the money and had even handed over the clothes and balaclava he was wearing on the night.
Magistrate Charmaine Galea took this into consideration when handing down judgment.
“You face a potential four-year prison term. However, the court is willing to give you a chance… the probation officer is there to guide you and you must obey any instructions she will give you,” the magistrate said.
Mr Pullicino was represented by lawyers Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri.