suspended two-month prison sentence in Magistrates' Court yesterday.

James Francis of Scott's Hill Road admitted he lied on August 3, 1991 when he told Police officers that Sandys Secondary School had been burgled. And he confessed he actually stole the money the day before.

He told the officers he committed the offences because of alcohol addiction.

Senior Magistrate the Wor. Will Francis told Francis he hoped he had learned his lesson and said he would give him credit for his previous good record.

"Normally persons in your position who do things like this go to prison ...

I hope this is a one-time offence.'' The high school's headmaster, Mr. Melvyn Bassett spoke on behalf of Francis, saying the school considered him to be an "asset to our staff'' during the three years he was employed there.

"He was a loyal, committed and honest employee,'' he said. "I feel the situation was out of character. He is respected by staff and students of the school and if circumstances permit, I wouldn't hesitate to have him rejoin us in the future.'' Pastor Eugene Joell echoed Mr. Bassett's opinion.

"He carries great remorse for this,'' he said. "This incident is really out of character. He has returned to church and I'm sure he has learned a great lesson.'' "I realise I was placed in a position of trust,'' Francis told the court. "I feel very bad about what I've done. I am presently out of work but when I do resume employment, I want very much to compensate the school. I am receiving counselling from Addiction Services.'' Mr. Francis gave Francis a suspended two-month sentence on each of the two counts.