Drunk's attack leaves female officers bruised

John Forsyth (46) attempted to prevent the officers arresting someone else and ended up being carted away himself, after a violent struggle left the police with cuts and bruises.

Forsyth appeared at Falkirk Sheriff Court having pled guilty to threatening behaviour and the assaults he committed in Castle Crescent, Denny, on September 10 last year.

Siobhan Monks, procurator fiscal depute, said: “The three police officers attended at the address at 3pm to detain a female. They found the accused sitting in the living room – it was clear to them he had been drinking.

“He started telling them they would not be arresting anyone, shouting and swearing at them. They warned him about his behaviour – he was sitting on the couch clenching his fists.

“He stood up and was told to sit back down. One officer had her arm out in front of her and he pushed her arm. At that point he was placed under arrest and became extremely aggressive and violent.

“When they tried to put handcuffs on him he pulled away and started struggling, repeatedly spitting on the police officers.”

When he sobered up the next day, Forsyth said he was sorry and added he did not know what he was doing.

The three police officers suffered bruising, with one also sustaining small cuts, as a result of the attack.

Defence solicitor William McIntyre said alcohol and drugs were at the root of Forsyth’s offending.

He added: “It was his drunken behaviour at the time and he has apologised for that.”

The court heard Forsyth, 45 West Boreland Road, Denny, had not engaged with his community payback order and still had 157 hours of the unpaid work segment still to complete.

Sheriff Derek Livingston revoked the order and sentenced Forsyth to six months in prison.

Forth Valley Addictions Support and Counselling (ASC) offers help to addicts. Visit www.asc.me.uk or call (01324) 874969.