A father-of-one convicted of stealing more than $10,000 in goods has avoided prison because of his previous good behaviour.
Meli Serukalou, 29, pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary and two of theft committed on June 20 and 22.
Court records show that on June 20 he broke into the warehouse of Ranger Bits & Four-Wheel Drive Spares Pte Ltd and stole items valued at $4200. Two days later, he returned to steal goods worth $5850.
Some of the stolen property valued at $3100 was recovered, leaving a loss of $6950.
Serukalou, who spent 51 days in remand, admitted his actions under caution. As a first offender, he expressed remorse and sought forgiveness.
Passing sentence on August 14, Justice Dane Tuiqereqere said Serukalou was an “ideal candidate for rehabilitation” but warned that his suspended 16-month sentence would be activated if he re-offended.
“This is your first conviction. You have avoided prison only because of your previous good behaviour,” Justice Tuiqereqere said.
“Make the right choice for your future and the future of your young son.”