sentence after pleading guilty to stealing meat products from the MarketPlace.

Bulfort Smith, a self-employed builder from Lusher Hill, Warwick, had hidden a $4.99 packet of Steakums when he went to pay for other items at the Victoria Street, Pembroke, store on Friday lunchtime.

When he appeared before Magistrate Will Francis yesterday Smith blurted out: "Matthew Five. I'm going to plead guilty.'' Police Prosecutor Sgt. Phil Taylor pointed out that Smith had a long history of shoplifting offences throughout Bermuda going back to 1994.

On February last year a six-month suspended sentence had been activated.

Smith, 37, said: "I was supposed to be in church yesterday, I like the lessons. John 1:9 is my favourite verse.'' Mr. Francis said: "Your attitude is not helping matters. I think MarketPlace and other supermarkets need to be protected from you.

"I am fining you $350.'' Smith said: "That's outrageous.'' Mr. Francis continued: "And I also impose a six-month sentence suspended for two years.'' Smith replied: "That's definitely outrageous. Matthew Five.''