Call for reports in pupil assault case

A youth who assaulted a schoolboy and left him severely injured will have to wait to learn his fate after being found in breach of a court order imposed for the offence.

The 17- year- old, who is too young to be identified, was said to have performed “pathetically poorly” when he was hauled back to court to explain his non- cooperation.

Defence agent Peter Galletly confirmed there would be a medical explanation given when his client returns to court for final disposal, after Sheriff Susan Sinclair said she would first be calling for a fresh set of background reports before deciding what the next step should be.

His client had previously admitted assaulting a 14- year- old schoolboy in Hazel Avenue, Johnstone, on May 20, by repeatedly striking him on the head and body with a broken bottle or similar instrument, and having unlawful possession of the item in question.

Mr Galletly stressed that his client was now in a better position to be able to buckle down and complete the Order previously put in place.

Sheriff Sinclair revoked the order, however, and told the accused: “I will call for reports to see what social work will have to say about any apparent willingness to start afresh and complete these hours of unpaid work.”

The matter was adjourned until January 16 for reports to be prepared and submitted.