A repeat offender was sentenced to two years in jail after admitting to stealing several items from the Office of the Refugee Commissioner in Msida.

Terence Vella, 33, pleaded guilty in July but was remanded in custody after his lawyer asked the court to appoint a probation officer to compile a report before judgment was issued. He had been accused of stealing three laptops on the night of July 15.

The probation officer’s report indicated that the accused had faced harsh circumstances which left a negative impact on the way he lived his life.

This was reflected in his criminal record – convictions for theft and crimes connected to drug abuse. While in custody, Mr Vella accepted assistance to help him address his problems, including of a psychological nature and those related to drug abuse.

Magistrate Doreen Clarke noted he was unable to do so effectively by himself and when he was not under the control of others.