Man Sentenced to Seven Months for Stealing Bicycle in Ladyville

58-year-old Joe Alberto Lauriano, father of three grown children is serving his second night in the “big house”, after he was sentenced to four months in prison for stealing a $250 beach cruiser bicycle. During sentencing yesterday, the Magistrate took into consideration what the law says about aggravating and mitigating factors of the offender. Lauriano had a previous conviction for theft therefore his sentence was increased by one month bringing it to seven months. That time was further reduced by three months for his early guilty plea. He also admitted to being a drug addict, and agreed to be enrolled in the drug rehabilitation program at the Kolbe Foundation.

During sentencing, he was remorseful and told the court (quote) “I was lonely. I had no job. It is not something I like to do, but somehow, I did it- I nuh usually do something like that. I’m sorry I did that.” (end quote)

Police say that on Sunday, BDF soldier Hubert Martinez, of Ladyville, reported that he was at home when his wife alerted him that someone was under their house bottom. He quickly ran downstairs only to see Lauriano, whom he knew riding off  with his bicycle. Martinez said he drove behind him, seized the bicycle and reported the matter to police.