Two brothers who used stolen cheques to buy items ranging from tools and barbecues to televisions have been given suspended jail terms after admitting fraud.

Julian Friggieri, 34, and 45-year-old Emanuel used the cheques at six shops, while the elder sibling defrauded a further four outlets.

They admitted cheating Crosscraft of €1,162, Tip Top of €510, Ultimate of €499, Homemate of €619 and Doneo of €604 between January and July. Emanuel Friggieri also admitted defrauding The Tool Box of €140, AAK Grech Limited of €300, R. Grech Ironmongery of €245 and Handyman Centre of €276.

Magistrate Ian Farrugia told the men they deserved effective jail terms but he was going to give them suspended sentences.

He sentenced them to two years behind bars suspended for four years and warned them of the severe consequences of committing another crime punishable by prison during that time.

He also ordered them to repay the value of the items.

Police Inspector Rennie Stivala prosecuted. Lawyers Michael and Lucio Sciriha appeared for the men.

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