Police snare yob with hammer in street disturbance

He’s kept behind bars until he learns fate next month

A yob caught with a hammer in the street has been remanded in prison while he awaits his punishment.

Troubled John Winters was snared with the offensive weapon during a disturbance in Johnstone.

Paisley Sheriff Court heard yesterday that the 23-year-old, who appeared from custody, pleaded guilty to possession of the weapon and breaching bail conditions.

Sentence was deferred on Winters of Graham Street, also Johnstone, for the court to obtain reports.

Defence agent James Arrol said: “Reports are available but it is my submission the court would benefit from a report from Renfrewshire Head Service.

“The accused suffered a head injury which has affected his personality and his behaviour and I would ask for matters to be continued in order to obtain this information.

“It was a significant injury and an up to date assessment would be beneficial in relation to your lordship’s sentencing of the case.”

The lawyer made no application for bail and the accused was continued to be held on remand.

Winters pleaded guilty to possessing the offensive weapon, namely a hammer, at Quarry Street, Johnstone, on October 22, 2016, without reasonable excuse or lawful authority.

He also pleaded guilty to committing the offence having been granted bail at Paisley Sheriff Court.

Sheriff Tom McCartney agreed to the lawyer’s request and continued matters for three weeks, where he would also deal with contempt arising from Winters’ non appearance at court for the sentencing hearing last month.

He said: “I will defer sentence for the purpose of obtaining a medical report on the defence motion. I will also delay the contempt of court to that date.”

The accused will discover his fate when he returns for sentencing on July 5.