Punched pal then smashed up fish tank and telly

A Chapelhall yob smashed up a fish tank after punching a female friend in the face.

Ryan Shields, 22, also destroyed a television during a violent episode at a property on Langloan Place, Coatbridge last March.

The Queens Crescent resident pleaded guilty to his reckless actions – which caused £ 500 worth of damage – after a night of drinking with friends.

Last week at Airdrie Sheriff Court the procurator fiscal said: “At around 5am the witness was in the property with the accused.

“They are friends and although they were drunk there were no issues between them.

“At around 5.55am the accused became aggressive to the witness and stated, ‘you are doing my head in’.

“He then grabbed the witness’s phone and smashed it off the ground before punching her on the face.

“He continued to act violently and punched a television and a fish tank, causing them both to fall and smash.

“The accused then left the house and police were contacted.

“He wasn’t cautioned and charged due to his level of intoxication.

“He caused £ 500 worth of damage to items in the property.”

Shields’ defence solicitor Darran Khorasani stated: “This was an unsavoury incident but at the time he was having personal issues.

“He now has employment and a good income as well as having reduced his alcohol intake.

“He is in a position to do unpaid work or pay a financial penalty.”

Sheriff Petra Collins said: “I will impose a community payback order with two requirements.

“The first will be 130 hours of unpaid work which I have discounted from 150 due to your plea.

“This will be completed within the next 18 months.

“You will also pay compensation of £ 500 to your victim after the damage you caused.

“This is an alternative to custody so if you breach this I will consider a custodial sentence.”