Bullied teenager threatened to kill his tormentors
Sheriff issues curfew order after doorstep knife incident
A bullied teenager turned up at a youth’s home armed with a knife after warning his tormentors online “I mean it – the night you are gonna die.”
Boozed up Ross Stevenson, 18, decided enough was enough and targeted the bullies his laywer claimed had made his life hell.
Paisley Sheriff Court heard yesterday how he downed bottles of drink to cope with situation.
And after one bender on February 4, Stevenson, of Burnside Road, Elderslie, visited the home of another youth in Hillview Road along with two friends.
He banged on the door and demanded that those inside bring the youth out, but instead the family slammed the door when they spotted he was armed with a knife.
Earlier that evening, he had called another youth and left threatening messages.
He also posted threats on Facebook.
“Everyone of youse are dead,” he said, “I mean it – the night you are gonna die. I don’t care if you are in Belfast or wherever you are.
“You’re a good wee guy, but unfortunately, you are f***ed.
“You’re dead. I’m coming for you and your family. Bye-bye.”
When police caught up with Stevenson, he told them: “I’m going to kill myself.”
His lawyer, Terry Gallanagh, said it was clear that bullying had led his client to drink to excess and then seek revenge.
“He understands, however, that this conduct is unacceptable,” he added.
The lawyer said that reports had previously been prepared, but when the background came out it was felt that mental health issues should be investigated too and that report had been completed and presented to the court.
Referring to the underlying alcohol consumption issues, he said that the accused had sought help and support, was now in the early stages of abstinence and would benefit from supervision.
Stevenson admitted behaving in a threatening or abusive manner likely to cause fear and alarm to others by sending voice messages, repeatedly swearing and uttering threats, and attending a home while in unlawful possession of a knife.
Sheriff Robert Fife told him: “I am going to deal with this serious case by the imposition of a Restriction of Liberty Order and in doing so warn that the court takes a very dim view of people who have knives.
“I am glad to see that you are addressing the alcohol issues and I hope that you continue to do so.”
He ordered Stevenson to abide by the curfew terms of order, which will run for four months, requiring him to remain at home between the hours of 7pm and 7am each day.
He understands his conduct is unacceptable Terry Gallanagh