A woman, who claimed she was a single mother and lived off social benefits, was yesterday placed on probation for a year after pleading guilty to stealing eight mobile phones and a number of wallets.

Anne Gatt, 33, from Birkirkara, pleaded guilty to stealing a total of eight mobiles and several wallets to the detriment of a number of people. She also pleaded guilty to receiving stolen goods and to damaging a sim card.

Handing down his judgement, Magistrate Anthony Vella said the court was taking into consideration the fact that Gatt is a single mother who lives off social benefits and also that all the stolen items have been returned to their rightful owners. He placed the woman on probation for a period of one year.

Police inspector Kevin Farrugia prosecuted while Dr Chris Cardona appeared for the defendant.