‘Ghost’ accused of threats defends himself in dock

A self-styled ghost appeared in court on Halloween and told a sheriff he was fit to conduct the defence in his own case.

Remiguisz Hildebrandt told Perth Sheriff Court his name was “Casper the Friendly Ghost” and that he was the only person who could judge himself.

The 33-year-old former volleyball player faces charges of threatening to attack staff working at the Crown Office in Edinburgh.

He said: “I am able to represent myself.

“I want to be heard by the court. We are all equal and that is how society should work.”

When he appeared at the court he was asked to confirm Remiguisz Hildebrandt as his name, but told the court clerk he was “Casper, the Friendly Ghost.”

He repeatedly confirmed he was the cartoon ghost as he faced charges of threatening to attack Crown Office staff.

Hildebrandt, of St Andrew Street, Perth, faces two charges of causing fear or alarm to members of the prosecution service by threatening them.

It is alleged that he carried out the first offence at the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in Chambers Street, Edinburgh, on September 5.

He is accused of repeatedly uttering threats of violence and threats to harm employees. Hildebrandt was freed on bail at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on May 15.

The second charge alleges that he caused fear or alarm on September 6 by again uttering threats to harm employees of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

Sheriff Pino di Emidio continued a treatment order against him yesterday as the court pursues a further investigation into his fitness to plead and his mental state at the time.