Out ends in jail

A man’s Hogmanay night out ended with him in a cell on three charges. And Malcolm Scott’s New Year has begun with a six- month jail sentence. Scott, 26, admitted striking partner Leah Kennedy on the head and body, and kicking her on the body. He further admitted shouting, swearing and uttering threats of violence. Scott, of Davidson Place in Ayr, also pleaded guilty to attempts to spit on two police constables. Ayr Sheriff Court heard that Ms Kennedy ended up with a swollen face and cuts to her knees. Depute fiscal Mhairi Mair said the incident occurred in King’s Court, Ayr just before midnight. Witnesses saw a disturbance in the street, with Ms Kennedy trying to push Scott away. Ms Mair said: “The accused was then seen kicking Ms Kennedy in the stomach, and punching her on the head. “Police were called, and found both under the influence of alcohol, and both with injuries.” Defence lawyer Tony Currie said: “They had some significant issues in their lives before Christmas. They drank too much, and became involved in a fight. “Neither of them reported it to the police - it was reported by an onlooker. “Mr Scott has been in custody since, and she has visited him, but they are not sure where their relationship is going to go.” Mr Currie added: “His recollection of the event is blurred by the condition he got himself into. He is completely ashamed of his behaviour.” He conceded: “It seems it’s a choice for the court of whether to extend his supervision order, to include alcohol counselling, or impose a period of imprisonment.” Sheriff John Montgomery was in no doubt, telling Scott : “You committed these offence while on a community payback order, and against a background of disturbances and assaults. “I sentence you to six months imprisonment on each of the three charges, to run concurrently.”