Attacks accused told to stay in jail

A man facing trial over a string of alleged assaults has failed in a bid to be released from prison on bail.

Dean Har r ison, 29, appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court via video link where his lawyer argued he should be allowed out because he has been behind bars on remand since last June.

Harrison is accused of assaulting Kirsty Best at a property in Springhill Road, Barrhead, on June 21, last year.

He is also alleged to have attacked Natalie McKean, his former partner.

Prosecutors also claim that Mr Harrison assaulted David Barr.

He is also charged with public disorder at Paisley’s Royal Alexandra Hospital where he is alleged to have shouted, swore and uttered offensive remarks.

The case was continued until a further hearing slated for April.

His defence agent David Nicholson said his client, who is denying all the charges against him, would have served more than 10 months, “the equivalent of a 20-month sentence,” even before his case has come to trial.

He said: “I would like to make an application for bail as it is a high point considering the period of time this man has spent on remand.

“That is a sentence of some 20 months when weighed against the charges on the indictment.

“He would like to seek bail to an address in Storie Street, Paisley, and he is being supported by his family.”

Procurator fiscal depute Frankie Morgan, however, opposed the bail move by the defence.

He said: “There would be a potential risk of re-offending if bail were granted and there have been no material changes in the circumstances surrounding the accused’s position.”

Sheriff Colin Pettigrew refused the application for bail. Harrison will next appear in court on April 21.