A couple that has just completed a drug rehabilitation programme looked at each another and smiled as they stood side by side in the dock hearing a magistrate congratulate them on the “miraculous” changes he saw in them.

Anthony Grech, 32, and his girlfriend, Justine Zammit, 30, appeared in court yesterday afternoon for sentencing over a string of handbag thefts they committed four years ago.

Initially, the two appeared sombre as they took their place in the dock but they soon brightened as Magistrate Carol Peralta read out the judgment and handed down a three-year conditional discharge.

“I saw you transform before my eyes. This was a long case and you had problems but you seem to have overcome them. The change in you was miraculous and I compliment you for your willpower. You seriously impressed me,” the magistrate told them.

Mr Grech and Ms Zammit, from Żebbuġ, admitted to stealing three bags from Pretty Bay, Birżebbuġa, and another bag from Ta’ Kalanka, Delimara between July and August 2011.

The magistrate noted that the two had a drug addiction problem that got them in trouble with the law over the years. But they had worked hard and completed drug rehabilitation programmes and were now on the right track.

Apart from the conditional discharge, he placed them under the care of a probation officer for three years.

“The court is proud of you,” he said, at which point the couple looked at one another, smiled and together said: “Thank you.”