A 36-year-old drug addict who, only one week ago had been arraigned for having helped himself to 21 charity boxes in different localities around the island, has today landed an effective jail term of two years after being found guilty of aggravated theft.

Keith Falzon was accused of having last April stolen wood and other items from four individuals in Qormi.

The court, presided by magistrate Josette Demicoli, heard the testimony of the probation officer formerly assigned to watch over and assess the accused.

The court observed that the man had a serious drug problem and had frequent brushes with the law. It was stated that the accused never made a serious commitment to quit his addiction and amend his ways.

Taking note of the man's guilty plea, the court condemned the accused to an effective jail term and imposed a treatment order for him to undergo a rehabilitation programme for his drug problem.

It also recommended that the accused be kept at the Forensic Unit at Mount Carmel to receive help.

Inspector Roderick Agius prosecuted.