Tourist handed suspended sentence for walking around naked in Isla as a joke

An 18-year-old tourist has been handed a suspended sentence and a fine for walking around naked in Isla as a joke on his final day in Malta.

Sean Graham Purves, a Scottish tourist on holiday with a group of friends, was handed a one-month in prison, suspended for three-months, and a €100 fine after he was spotted walking naked on St Angelo Street, Isla, at around 10am.

After being reported to the local council, CCTV footage of the incident was handed to the police.

He was later arrested at the residence where he was seen walking into. He was charged with committing an offence against decency or morals by an act committed in a public place, and exposing himself naked. He pleaded guilty to all the charges against him.

The defence explained that this was a “joke for their last day in Malta”, and they meant no harm. The accused was scheduled to fly back to Scotland at 1pm on Tuesday.

While the court understood this was a joke, the accused must understand that while it was only for fun, he was subconsciously agreeing to the consequences brought against the offence.

The court also noted that whilst he is only 18, he must realise that from this age, one is tried as an adult in court.

He was therefore sentenced to a one-month suspended sentence and a €100 fine.

Magistrate Monica Vella presided over the sitting. Legal aid lawyer Martina Herrera represented the accused. Inspector Kurt Farrugia prosecuted.