A 22-year-old man from Valletta who admitted to possessing cocaine and breaching court orders was spared jail and handed another probation order, but not before receiving a stern warning from the magistrate that he was running out of chances.

Sven Mangion pleaded guilty to possessing crack cocaine in Triq is-Swieqi, as well as breaching bail conditions and a previous probation order.

During the sitting, the presiding magistrate questioned whether Mangion truly appreciated the opportunities he had already been given, pointing out that despite previously being placed on probation, he had once again found himself before the court.

"I have two options: either send you to prison or give you another probation order. Why should I give you probation again?" the magistrate asked. Mangion replied that he would try to behave himself, prompting the magistrate to challenge whether simply trying would be enough. "I will do my best," the young man responded.

The magistrate made it clear that another breach would not be treated so leniently, warning Mangion that he would find himself back before the court with no further chances.

After being given the opportunity to reconsider and confirm his guilty plea, Mangion stood by his admission. The court ultimately exercised its discretion and handed him a three-year probation order, offering him another opportunity to reform rather than sending him to prison.

Mangion must also undergo weekly urine tests and abstain from consuming, possessing or using drugs or other illicit substances. His probation officer must also submit progress reports to the court every six months.

Mangion was also fined €500, while €300 from his bail deposit was forfeited.

Inspectors Perguido Saliba and Christian Xuereb prosecuted the case. 

Defence lawyers Arthur Azzopardi and Jacob Magri assisted Mangion.

Duty Magistrate Franco Agius presided over the case.