Disturbances in Sandwick

A MAN who caused “deeply unpleasant” disturbances in Sandwick earlier this year has been placed under supervision for nine months and given a £500 fine.

Benedict Gray, of Parkland, previously admitted behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at his home address and another property in Sandwick on 9 July by repeatedly shouting and swearing.

He also struck the doors and windows of one of the houses with excessive force, as well as uttering threats to damage property.

Procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie said the crown wished to impose a non-harassment order on the 38 year old which related to his wife.

He said the order would prohibit Gray from directly contacting the woman for an indefinite period, unless through a solicitor or the family mediation service.

Defence agent Tommy Allan suggested the length of the order was not proportionate to the offence, adding that his client has sought help with alcohol use and was “ashamed” of his behaviour.

Sheriff Philip Mann accepted the fiscal’s description of the offence as a “deeply unpleasant instance of domestic abuse”, but decided to place Gray under a non-harassment order for three years.