Linden teen found guilty of simple larceny – fined $50,000

A Linden teen who was found guilty of a simple larceny offence was fined ,000 by Magistrate Clive Nurse when he made an appearance at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The defendant, 18-year-old Miguel Andrews, had initially pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that between December 30 and December 31, 2015, he stole a Samsung Galaxy cellular phone valued $40,000 and an amplifier valued $85,000.

The incident allegedly occurred at 139 Lower Kara Kara, Mackenzie, Linden.  The items, valued a total of $125,000, are the property of Nial Loimer. Andrews was previously granted bail in the sum of $40,000 by the presiding Magistrate.

However, when the case was called on September 14, Magistrate Nurse indicated that the prosecution had established sufficient evidence to prove its case against the defendant. He also noted several inconsistencies regarding the defendant’s evidence which he presented to the court.  Asked by Magistrate Nurse to present a reason why the court should be lenient with him, the defendant again denied committing the act, while noting that he has a wife, children and his mother to support. A probation report on the defendant was ordered by Magistrate Nurse, and it was presented on Wednesday.

The defendant was ordered to pay the $50,000 fine or face six months imprisonment if in default.