Police assault results in supervision and curfew

A MAN formerly from Sandwick who admitted assaulting two police officers has been placed under supervision for 12 months.

John Gair, of Lochgelly, Fife, was also placed under a curfew for six months – amid concern from the accused over the discomfort electronic tags might give him.

The 51-year-old previously admitted assaulting the constables on 10 June 2021 at his old home address in Sandwick.

He had pleaded guilty to assaulting one officer by aggressively forcing his chest against his body whilst in the possession of a knife, and repeatedly attempting to strike him with his arms and butt him on the head.

Gair also pleaded guilty to kicking another constable on the body and repeatedly pinching her on the body, all to her injury.

At Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday, defence agent Tommy Allan described his client as someone who might initially take offence to things easily.

He said whilst Gair had no objection to the idea of a curfew, health issues meant there was concern over the discomfort tags might cause to his legs.

Sheriff Ian Cruickshank said it was a prolonged incident which used up valuable police resources.

He said that he was not particularly concerned about the prospect of electronic tags causing an issue. “Perhaps there should be some discomfort in relation to this matter,” he said.

The curfew will see Gair having to stay in his home between 9pm and 7am for six months.