Fined and placed on probation after threatening his family and Police officers

30-year-old Justin Camilleri from Zebbug was yesterday arraigned in Court and charged with threatening Police officers and members of his family, and with disturbing the peace.

Inspector Alfredo Mangion stated that on 16 October a report was received at Zebbug Police Station about problems between accused and his mother and siblings, for he asked them for money and they refused him because it appears he has a drug problem. The Inspector added that the family could not take it any more and had recourse to the Police authorities.

Inspector Mangion stated that the Police referred accused for treatment, and when they were taking him to Qormi health centre, accused threatened his Police escort. The escort and Camilleri were at the same school and Camilleri threatened harm to the escort’s family. The Inspector added that accused was admitted to Mount Carmel hospital for treatment, and a warrant was issued for his arrest as soon as he left hospital.

Assisted by legal aid lawyer Raisa Colombo, accused admitted to the charges. Prosecution stated that accused needs help, even for his attitude and for his vices which have led to his breaking up the family with whom he was still living before this case. Prosecution added that the mother admitted her son has problems, and cannot take his threats when he asks for money and is refused.

Accused stated he is going to live at Dar San Frangisk, adding that he is presently unemployed, which prompted Dr Colombo to request that if a fine is imposed, it will be a minimal one.

Asked by the Court, Dr Natasha Galea Sciberras presiding, whether he had undergone a programme, accused replied that he had undergone a programme at San Blas and had been ‘clean’ for eight months, having only succumbed in these last two days.

The Court found accused guilty, and appointed a probation officer to follow his case for two and a half years, whilst fining him €800 which have to be paid at the rate of €50 per month. The Court also issued an eighteen-month restraining order for his family and for the Police.