A man has been placed on probation for three years after he was found guilty of stealing a car and damaging it nearly four years ago.

Aaron Cassar, 27, from Kirkop, was found guilty of stealing a car from Hamrun on 11 August 2003, stealing several items inside the car and damaging it.

The court heard how the man had a drug addiction problem at the time when the theft took place and that now he has successfully completed a drug rehabilitation programme. Magistrate Audrey Demicoli therefore placed him on probation for three years.

Police Inspector Walter Spiteri prosecuted while Dr Franco Debono and Dr Marion Camilleri appeared for the accused.