A Dei-Dei Grade I Area Court in Abuja on Monday, sentenced a security guard, Okoh Richard to three months imprisonment for stealing meat and drinks from his employer’s kitchen.

Richard, who works in Edimony Hotel Abuja, was charged with theft.

The Area Court judge, Sulyman Ola, however, gave Richard an option to pay a fine of N20,000.

Ola said that the punishment would have been stiffer if the convict had not saved the court the rigours of a protracted prosecution.

He also warned the convict to be of good behaviour.

Richard had earlier pleaded guilty and begged the court for leniency.

Earlier, the Prosecution Counsel, Mr Olaonipekun Babajide told the court that the complainant, Mr Echezona Mogboma of Halogen Security Ltd reported the matter at the Dawaki Police station, Abuja, March 10.

Babajide said that the convict was attached to Edimony Hotels and resort Katampe to secure and protect the hotel premises.

He said that on March 8 at about 7p.m., the convict criminally broke into Flat 1 kitchen through the window and stole meat and drinks

He said that the convict also attempted to break into the inner chamber of Edimony hotel manager but was caught.

During investigation, he said, the

convict confessed to the crime.