Man charged with vending machine theft

A man from Hamrun has been remanded in custody after he was charged with breaking into a bar and robbing a cigarette vending machine, in what is believed to be one of a number of similar crimes.

21-year-old Brandon Pace appeared in the dock before magistrate Gabriella Vella this afternoon, charged with stealing €1,200 worth of cigarettes, together with around €1,550 in cash from the vending machine, which was situated in a Hamrun bar. He was also charged with causing voluntary damage to third party property, relapsing and breaching his bail conditions.

The accused is understood to have an extensive list of previous convictions.

The accused, who is unemployed, pleaded not guilty.

Bail was not requested. The court appointed a probation officer was appointed to supervise the accused during his time in custody and to help him “address any vices which he may have.”

Police Inspectors Carlos Cordina and Kurt Zahra prosecuted.

Lawyer Noel Bianco is Pace's defence counsel.