Criminal cases called at Forfar Sheriff Court

A Brechin woman has appeared on petition in connection with an alleged tax credits fraud worth more than £40,000.

Donna Taylor appeared in private before Sheriff Gregor Murray over a charge under the Tax Credits Act 2002.

The 41-year-old made no plea, was released on bail and has been fully committed for examination.

A further appearance date has yet to be determined.

An Angus woman has been jailed over “disgusting offences” that saw her spit and resist arrest.

Danielle Ritchie from Arbroath admitted causing a breach of the peace on March 30 this year in the town’s Boulzie Place, acting in an aggressive manner, shouting, swearing and repeatedly spitting while on bail.

She further admitted resisting three police constables at the same time and place, struggling violently.

Solicitor Lynne Sturrock said her client had hurt her foot and her partner had called for an ambulance.

However the 22-year-old was “under the influence” when emergency services appeared.

Sentencing Ritchie to four months in prison, Sheriff Murray said: “These are serious offences, in fact they are disgusting offences.

“There is no other way to describe it.”

An Angus man who launched into an anti-English rant against a neighbour at a housing complex has been fined.

Alistair Aitken began a “clenched fist” tirade against a man from Lincoln with a fourletter outburst at their Brechin complex in July last year.

The retired lorry driver, 62, previously admitted swearing and gesticulating at him, challenging him to fight and uttering racist remarks in Denburn Court.

Solicitor Nick Markowski said his client had been taking painkillers which caused him to become short-tempered.

Describing the offence as “particularly stupid”, Sheriff Murray fined Aitken £100.