Offender hurls vile racist abuse at Asian in Forth Valley Royal Hospital

Alan Russell (59) was a patient on a ward in Forth Valley Royal Hospital when he began shouting and swearing at the man in question – repeatedly referring to the colour of his skin and ethnic origin in front of medical staff.

When it was explained to him he could not use that kind of language about the colour of someone’s skin he simply replied “but he is”.

Appearing at Falkirk Sheriff Court last Thursday, Russell had previously pleaded guilty to the racially aggravated threatening behaviour offence he committed at FVRH on August 31, 2019.

Procurator fiscal depute Amy Sneddon said: “The witnesses were working at the hospital when they heard a commotion in the corridor – a patient shouting and swearing.”

They heard Russell let loose a torrent of racist language at the man he was with, referring to the colour of his skin.

"The witness told the accused his language and behaviour was not acceptable,” said the procurator fiscal depute. “The accused replied ‘but he is’. Police were then contacted by staff and attended at the ward.”

Sheriff Derek Livingston placed Russell on a restriction of liberty order for a period of three months, meaning he will have to remain in his home at 6 Edward Street, Dunblane between the hours of 7pm and 7am during that period.

He will be fitted with a tag and if he does breach the order he will be arrested.