Racist abuse at Falkirk neighbours over dumped rubbish leads to court fine

James Turnbull’s behaviour was branded as “atrocious” as he bombarded his neighbours with vile racial insults after he confronted them over supposed long standing problems with refuse being left outside his premises.

Turnbull (61) appeared at Falkirk Sheriff Court last Thursday, and admitted acting in a threatening and racially aggravated manner in York Street, Falkirk on November 1.

Rachel Wallace, procurator fiscal depute, said: “It was 1.30am and police were called to attend at the address due to the accused shouting and banging and harassing the witness.

“Officers attended to obtain statements.

The accused had been heard shouting by witnesses, calling a woman a ‘Hungarian cow’ and a ‘Hungarian whore’.”

Defence solicitor William McIntyre said Turnbull, a long distance lorry driver, had been a tenant of his neighbours for 10 years.

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“He was trying to get something done about his neighbours leaving rubbish and disposable nappies on his doorstep,” said Mr McIntyre. “The good thing from his point of view is he is very seldom at home.”

Mr McIntyre added Turnbull had “quite a lot to drink” on the night in question and recognised he does have an “anger problem”.

Sheriff Derek Livingston said: “Your behaviour was atrocious – no matter what the provocation.”

He fined Turnbull £355 and ordered him to pay £500 compensation to his victim to be paid back within two months.

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