Kildare man accused of bakery robbery escapes jail in the US

An Irish tourist accused of wielding a knife during the theft of two pastries from an Italian bakery in Boston has avoided jail.

Prosecutors said 25-year-old Robert McTernan, of Newbridge, Co. Kildare, admitted in court there were sufficient facts for a jury to find him guilty of the crime at Bova’s Bakery in the largely Italian North End district last Thursday.

He was accused of stealing two cannolis worth about $5 while flashing a large knife.

Prosecutors agreed to reduce an armed robbery charge to larceny and offered nine months’ probation.

A judge ordered him to return to Ireland, where he must perform 50 hours of community service.

Prosecutors said if he abides by the conditions the charge will be dismissed.