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Melody Baya, Court Reporter
A 15-YEAR-OLD pupil at Sizane High school in Bulawayo has appeared before a Western Commonage magistrate for allegedly stealing clothes worth $150 from a house in Pelandaba suburb.
The Form Three pupil, who cannot be named for ethical reasons, pleaded guilty to a theft charge before Magistrate Abednico Ndebele.
She told the court that she was not “thinking straight” when she stole the clothes which comprised of a variety of casual wear, a school uniform and shoes.
“I wasn’t thinking straight when I stole the clothes Your Worship. I will never do it again, please forgive me,” said the girl.
Ndebele postponed sentence on condition that she does not commit a crime involving dishonesty in the next three years.
The magistrate advised the Form Three pupil to behave and be a good child as she had a future ahead of her.
“It won’t do anyone justice to send you to prison but it does not necessarily mean you should go out there and make stealing a habit. Go home and behave and don’t repeat the same mistake which can cost you your future,” said Ndebele.
Prosecuting, Steward Madzore said on January 18, the teen allegedly took a key from under a door mat and unlocked a neighbour’s door.
“When she entered the place, she stole property which comprises of a white blouse, Grey T-shirt, blue jean trousers, a khaki jacket, pink shirt, black shoes, a green school tunic and a black shirt,” said Madzore.
She left the door open.
Madzore said the complainant later discovered the offence and investigations led to the teen’s arrest.
The total value of the stolen clothes was $150 and only those valued at $15 were recovered.
derick.khumalo