Solomone Taufahema breached the conditions of his probationary licence when he consumed alcohol.

On Thursday last week, the court heard he consumed alcohol on November 26.

A probation officer said Taufahema, 23, and employed as a groundsman, had served the first six months of a community sentence imposed in December 2020 on a charge of burglary.

He was told not to purchase or consume alcohol as part of his sentence conditions.

On November 26 he failed those conditions by consuming alcohol.

The court heard his employer spoke highly of him, and as a result of good behaviour, he had been offered accommodation at the resort where he is employed.

“This is very positive for us, we wish to give him the benefit of the doubt.

“We ask that he be convicted and fined,” the probation officer said.

Justice of the Peace John Whitta said it was good news to hear Taufahema had employment.

“You are so close, you have done well.

“On December 8 (yesterday) he is all clear.

“Just continue on with that job, he has an excellent work situation.”

Taufahema was convicted and fined $40, and ordered to pay $50 court costs.