A 23-year-old Mtarfa resident was given a one-year jail term after admitting to attempted theft.

Jacob Rakban was arraigned and charged with two attempted thefts and damaging two vehicles while trying to break into them.

Inspector Robert Vella told the court how the young man had a history of drug problems, but tried to undergo rehabilitation a number of times.

Magistrate Yana Micallef Stafrace said that his drug addiction was a concern. "Does your mother deserve such worry?" the magistrate asked.

The man was placed under a treatment order and recommended that he follow a rehabilitation programme.

Inspector Robert Vella prosecuted. Lawyer Josette Sultana was legal aid counsel.