Serial domestic offender handed jail threat after row over dog mess

A serial Angus domestic offender has been warned that prison is the most likely outcome of his latest conviction, which was sparked by a row over dog mess.

Christopher Watt will learn his fate next month after Sheriff Gregor Murray ordered an assessment into whether Watt would be suitable for an electronic tag, but slammed the 40-year-old for his record.

Watt, of Newbigging Drive, Arbroath, appeared in the dock at Forfar having previously admitted behaving in a threatening or abusive manner towards his partner and another person at a house on Beacon Road, Montrose, in February last year by shouting and swearing, making threats and banging a door.

Defence solicitor Billy Rennie said: “Clearly the concern to the court is the record as much as the offence.”

He said Watt had been at the woman’s house with her consent but a row had broken out after a dog made a mess in the property and there was an argument about who would clean it up.

Watt then became embroiled in a bust-up with a male neighbour who he wrongly believed his partner was involved with.

Mr Rennie added: “The last time he was dealt with for a domestic matter was two-and-ahalf years ago.

“He has also given a clear indication that the relationship will continue and there are no issues between him and the neighbour.

“He has also completed a community payback order and shown that he can comply with court orders,” added the solicitor.

Sheriff Murray warned Watt: “I make it clear to you now that going to jail is right at the forefront of my mind.

“This is your seventh domestic offence, although I accept that it is not the worst which has come before me.”