Man admits smashing CCTV cameras

A 27-year-old homeless man smashed CCTV cameras belonging to Dar Leopoldo in Gzira because of the way he was treated by the home, he told the court this morning. Luke Bugeja, who was conditionally discharged for one year, was ordered to pay Suret Il-Bniedem, which runs the home, for the damages within four months. Mr Bugeja also admitted threatening Charles Mifsud, who takes care of the home. He claimed he was kicked out of the home for no reason. Lawyer Noel Bartolo said that his client’s mother died when he was three and his father shortly afterwards. His client admitted to the charges and was willing to apologise. Although he was currently unemployed, he was due to start working next week. He had cooperated with the police and would pay back damages as soon as he could. Speaking to the Magistrate Gabriella Vella, Mr Bugeja said: "I'm not crazy, I smashed up the camera because of the way I was treated in there." Magistrate Vella told the accused that smashing things up would not get him anywhere and if he had problems he should talk to the police.