A 25-year-old man with a heroin addiction was placed under probation for three years after he admitted to threatening his sister with a syringe and stealing a number of items from the family home.

The incident took place last Saturday, and Zurrieq resident Rodrick Tabone admitted to stealing cash, jewellery, two digital cameras and other objects belonging to his sister Magdalen after threatening her. He also stole cash from the family home.

Mr Tabone was also separately charged over the simple possession of heroin, and pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him.

Magistrate Doreen Clarke placed him under probation for three years and ordered him to undergo treatment for his heroin addiction. She also extended a previous conditional discharge to cover the probation period.

Inspector Kevin Pulis prosecuted, while lawyers Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri represented Mr Tabone.