A probation officer had recommended the imprisonment of David Schembri, 32, of Sliema, just a week before Mr Schembri fatally stabbed his former girlfriend, a court was told today.

The probation officer’s recommendation had not been accepted and probation was extended.

A jury this afternoon found Mr Schembri guilty of stabbing Josette Scicluna, 32, in her San Gwann apartment in 2004. He was also convicted of the unlawful possession of the firearm.

During the trial, presided by Mr Justice Joseph Galea Debono, jurors heard how Mr Schembri forced his way into Ms Scicluna’s apartment by shooting five times at the door lock. He then stabbed Ms Scicluna almost 50 times. The crime was witnessed by their daughter, then seven years old.

The jury returned an 8-1 guilty verdict.

Mr Justice Galea Debono, before delivering sentence, said Mr Schembri had 12 previous convictions over cases including violence and drugs and his probation officer had, just a week before this crime, recommended imprisonment over other crimes. His probation period, however, had been extended.

Mr Schembri had also been taking cocaine.

Mr Justice Galea Debono sentenced Mr Schembri to life imprisonment.

After sentencing Mr Schembri was heard telling relatives of the victim 'I am still alive'.