A young man was given a last chance to get his life back in order by being placed on probation and ordered to carry out community service after he admitted heroin possession in circumstances suggesting it was not for his own personal use.

Andre Scerri, 19, from Naxxar, had pleaded guilty to heroin possession in January 2004. He had followed a rehabilitation programme and had even taken his “A” level examinations.

The pre-sentencing report showed that he had high academic potential and had passed nine “O” level examinations.

From the evidence presented, the court believed his effort to lead a good life was genuine and that he really did want to reintegrate into society.

The court, presided over by Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera, noted that Scerri had been only 17 years old when he was charged with drug possession and has since made an attempt to reform.

In view of this, he was placed on probation for two years and ordered to carry out 100 hours of community service.

Inspectors Josric Mifsud and Simon Galea prosecuted.