Drug addict jailed for six years over string of thefts

A man from Senglea has been jailed for six years for committing a spate of seven thefts in a four week period last April

During his arraignment in May, 32-year-old Floyd Attard had initially pleaded not guilty to a number of charges, which included seven counts of aggravated theft, four counts of causing voluntary damage, handling stolen goods, using invalid license plates, tampering with license plates, driving a car that had no road license and without insurance cover. He was also charged with failing to comply with a police summons.

The offences all took place between 8 April and 4 May in Birkirkara, Paola, Qormi and Zebbug. 

However, in a sitting last week, Attard changed his plea to one of guilt.

Whilst deliberating on punishment, the court, presided by Magistrate Donatella Frendo Dimech, said it was taking into account the fact that “the accused did not hesitate to steal whatever he felt like to finance his drug addiction,” as well as his “voluminous” criminal record. Attard has previous convictions for theft, noted the court.   

Attard was jailed for six years and banned from driving for one year. He was also ordered to suffer €1,733 in court costs.

The court recommended the Director of Prisons to give Attard the necessary assistance so help him overcome his drug addiction.

Inspector James Grech prosecuted. Lawyer Mario Mifsud was defence counsel.