A Braintree teenager was freed by a judge on Tuesday. Albert Best, 19, of Bishop Road, Braintree, had been remanded in custody over Christmas after being convicted of stealing a car.
He had previous convictions. Best received 18 months community rehabilitation.
During the trial last month Roslyin Mandil-Wade, prosecuting, said a girl who went to school with Best saw him park a car outside her address and wipe the car door when he got out.
The Fiat Punto had been stolen in Braintree the day before and was later found burnt out in Ajax Drive, Braintree.
In an alibi defence Best told the jury he had walked to a shop near his parents' home to buy Yorkshire puddings at the time he was allegedly seen with the car.
Joanne Eley, mitigating, said Best still protested his innocence but was prepared to accept his punishment because he realised his life was in a mess and he wanted to change it.
Judge Charles Gratwicke told Best: "Essex people have had to contend with people like you who interfere with their property and cause distress but I take into account that you have already served the equivalent of two months youth custody."
Published Wednesday January 14, 2004
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