‘Sorry’ not enough

An apology was not sufficient to keep a 49-year-old man from being sentenced to 12 months in prison for theft.

Michael Dacosta Layne of Scott’s Gap, Brittons Hill, St Michael had pleaded guilty before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes to stealing several items belonging to a Construction company., including tools and clothing, between February 19 and 20 this year.

Station Sergeant Crishna Graham told the District ‘A’ Magistrates Court that acting on a tip, lawmen approached Layne who was walking along Suttle Street, St Michael and told him of the theft report. He admitted to committing the crime and took police to different locations where some of the property was recovered.

“I am very sorry for what I have done and would like some help with a drug habit. I would like to try Verdun [House] again. [It’s] just that because of COVID I lost contact with them. I just want another chance,” Layne told the magistrate.

However, Weekes told the convicted thief that if he was serious about getting help, he could return to the court of his own volition after serving his time at the St Philip penal institution and he would get the assistance he requested.

“I guarantee you we will get someplace for you to go for that help,” the Chief Magistrate said.