Things heated up in David's Kitchen when drunken Falkirk thug challenged customers to a fight

Appearing at Falkirk Sheriff Court on Thursday, Kevin Kerr (37) had pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening manner at David’s Kitchen, Dalderse Avenue, Falkirk on February 2. He also admitted threatening behaviour offences at Premier Express, Main Street, Bainsford on March 14 and at the Blue Bell, Main Street Bainsford on July 7, 2019.

Xander Van der Scheer, procurator fiscal depute, said: “It was 6.30pm and the witness was on Duty in David’s Kitchen, working on the shop floor when the accused attended and was being very loud.

"He bought a juice and a roll and then left. He returned 20 minutes later and walked into the deli area of the premises when customers were there. He began shouting and being aggressive saying ‘come on let’s go’ and followed a customer outside into the car park."

Kerr also made life difficult for staff at a shop in Bainsford.

Mr Van der Scheer said: “He came into the shop and appeared drunk. He spoke to the witness and asked her if she was in the shop by herself. She said she was there on her own and he then asked for a bottle of wine.

"She said she could authorise that and had to call her manager, who asked the accused to leave the premises. The accused left, but returned 15 minutes later and began shouting and swearing at customers.”

The court heard a couple of years earlier Kerr actually physically dragged a man from a pub and challenged him to a fight.

Defence solicitor John Mulholland said: “His difficulty is alcohol – he drinks too much and then behaves in this manner. He has taken steps to reduce his consumption of alcohol.”

It was stated Kerr had not yet experienced any time in custody.

Sheriff Simon Collins QC changed all that.

He said: “He has a significant criminal record and given the opportunity to service a community sentence, but did not take that opportunity and has re-offended in a similar manner.

"There is no alternative to a custodial sentence."

Kerr, 14 Castings Avenue, Falkirk, was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

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