Brute flashed knifeat police

A thug brandished a knife at two cops after telling them they were “getting it”.

Boozed-up John McCracken was under the influence when police attended a “disturbance” at a Barrhead property in July 2021. The 29-year-old threatened officers as he answered the door to them at an address in Kelburn Street before pulling a knife from his shorts waistband and brandishing at them.

Procurator fiscal depute Jason Stark told Paisley Sheriff Court McCracken appeared on petition on August 19, 2021 where he made no plea or declaration and was released on bail.

Mr Stark explained: “Around 10.55pm, on July 23, 2021 police officers Thorpe and Johnston were on uniformed mobile patrol when they received a call via their police issue airwave to attend an ongoing disturbance at Kelburn Street.

“On arrival, a disturbance could be heard from within the property. Officers knocked the door and identified themselves.

“At this point, the accused opened the door shouting at officers, phrases such as, ‘F**k off away fae ma door or you’re getting it’.

“It was noted McCracken appeared under the influence at this time. The accused then presented a kitchen knife from the waistband of his shorts and stepped out from the door way, again shouting incoherently at officers, brandishing the knife at them.

“McCracken was informed he was arrested officially and cautioned and charged and put in the rear of a police cell van and taken to Cathcart police station where he was processed.”

McCracken’s defence agent recommended that background reports to be called for. She explained to the court: “Mr McCracken suffers with a number of issues and suffers from a learning disability due to problems at birth.

“That’s led to physical difficulties, he suffers from epilepsy and his mental health has deteriorated.

“This is a complex case here and I think it would be useful to have reports before the court.”

Sheriff Tom McCartney said: “I will adjourn sentencing for the preparation of reports and a restriction of liberty order assessment. These are serious matters and you have a record that causes serious concern.”

McCracken, of Caledonia Road, Glasgow, will return to court for sentencing on April 3. His bail was continued meantime.