Brothers accused of theft

Two brothers were yesterday remanded in custody after being charged with aggravated theft of mobile phones and a car, together worth about Lm18,000.

Lee Demanuele, 30, and his brother Sonny were charged by inspector Mario Tonna with stealing mobile phones from Phoneworld in San Gwann on November 25 and again on March 18, with stealing from Phone Connections in Ta' Xbiex on January 20 this year and with stealing an Opel Kadett to the detriment of Albert Cassar.

They were further charged with causing wilful damage to the car and shops and with selling stolen goods.

Lee Demanuele was charged with being in possession of heroin and with failing to prove the drug was for his personal use.

The prosecution opposed bail on several grounds, including that there were at least 13 witnesses who were all friends of the accused and who had bought mobile phones from them and that the police were still investigating a third accomplice in the same thefts.

Inspector Tonna argued Lee Demanuele was making daily use of heroin and it would be better for him and society if he were remanded in custody.

After hearing the submissions, Magistrate Miriam Hayman decreed they should be remanded in custody.

Dr Stefan Filletti appeared for the accused.