A 67-year-old pawnbroker, Anthony Stivala, admitted to handling stolen property, including three antique vases and a clock from Valletta’s Grand Master’s Palace. Police found the items in his home, wrapped in towels and in “perfect condition.” Stivala pleaded guilty on Friday and received a two-year suspended jail term.
His defense lawyer stated there would be no appeal. Stivala is expected to testify against an architect involved in the theft. Last month, another person was charged in connection to the theft.
Prosecutors revealed that only three of the four stolen items were retrieved. Stivala’s lawyer argued that his client became involved in the crime only after hearing about it in the media and chose not to disclose the items to police to avoid escalating the situation.
Stivala’s children had prepared forms for customers declaring their items weren’t stolen, but he was negligent in using them. The prosecutor mentioned the total value of the stolen items, disputed by the defense.
After deliberation, the court found Stivala guilty. The presiding magistrate warned him to understand the seriousness of the situation. Stivala accepted, expressing his intention to close his shop and stay home peacefully.
Prosecutors were led by AG lawyer Nicholas Degaetano, with defense counsel provided by lawyers Roberto Spiteri and Joanna Scerri.
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