Teen thug punched woman over spat about a cigarette
Warning for gang attack yob who lashed out after row
A teenager has been fined after punching a woman in an unprovoked street attack.
Lewis Irvine, 18, thumped Charmaine Taylor during a rampage through Ferguslie Park.
He was part of gang who sparked havoc during a row over a cigarette.
Irvine earlier admitted assault during a hearing at Paisley Sheriff Court.
Sheriff Colin Pettigrew told the lout to cough-up for his behaviour.
He said: “This was a single punch. And it is on that basis I am dealing with it.
“You pled guilty at the trial diet. “You cannot expect much discount for that.”
Irvine was one of four teenagers who sparked violence in Paisley’s Ferguslie Walk.
He punched his victim after another man refused to give his pal a cigarette.
Prosecutor John Penman told how the teenager lashed out in the street.
He said: “He assaulted her. “There were independent witnesses in their home looking out onto this.
“An unknown male came out a close to assist and was assaulted.
“He was punched on the head and he disappeared up the close.”
Police raced to the scene after an onlooker raised the alarm.
They found three of the teens loitering at the scene on April 27.
Irvine was arrested and charged over the drama.
His accomplices – a man, 18, a lad, 17, and a girl of 16 – were also lifted.
They admitted a catalogue of assault charges.
The court heard Irvine has since been signed off work with an illness.
Defence lawyer David Nicholson claimed his client was hoping to return to his job and move on with his life.
He said: “He hopes to be back at work within a few weeks. That is when his sick line expires.”
Sheriff Pettigrew insisted there would be further punishment if he refused to pay.
He added: “I will impose a monetary penalty.
“It will be £360, reduced from £400 due to your plea.”
Irvine, of Argyle Street, Paisley, was ordered to pay the fine at a £10 per week.