called watered-down charges from prosecutors.

Magistrate Edward King ordered Shannon Looby to post $750 bail and get one surety in a like amount after Looby pleaded guilty to charges of stealing, threatening behaviour, and possessing offensive weapons stemming from incidents on September 2.

Last Friday Mr. King ordered Looby be remanded into custody, complaining the charges were "watered down'' and the 24-year-old should be charged with two counts of robbery.

Looby, who told Mr. King he lives in an abandoned car, admitted to two incidents shortly after 6 p.m. on Thursday.

He brandished a machete at a staff member of the Shopping Centre at 6.15 p.m.

after walking out with a $14.55 bottle of wine. He was challenged, Police report.

Less than an hour later, Looby stole a bottle of wine worth $9.75 from the MarketPlace on Church Street.

He brandished a machete and used threatening words to the assistant manager.

Mr. King ordered a social inquiry and psychological report for October 19 when Looby is expected to be sentenced.