A man was driven to alcohol dependency after his estranged wife ran up massive debts, a court heard today.

Magistrate Neville Camilleri heard how Louis Lia, 46, was being chased by people who were owed money by his wife, Mary Grace Lia.

Mr Lia, of Cospicua, was charged with Mrs Lia and her partner Alfred Attard in six separate incidents since July.

The court was told how Mr Lia's wife had left her husband but had refused to file for separation. This meant he was still liable for any debts she incurred.

Defence lawyer Jason Azzopardi explained how his client had repeatedly attempted to convince his wife to return home and settle the debts.

However, she had refused to do so and Mr Lia  turned to alcohol “as many do” as a form of escapism from his problems, Dr Azzopardi said.

Mr Lia was arrested on Saturday after allegedly kicking over garbage bags outside the house his wife is living in.

Mr Lia was granted bail against a deposit of €250 and a personal guarantee of €5,000. He was ordered not to contact his wife or her partner and to undergo an alcohol dependency programme.

Lawyer Kris Busietta also appeared for the defence.

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