Man admits series of break-in attempts

A late night lone worker was confronted by a man with a hammer trying to break into her office, Oban Sheriff Court has heard.

Attempting to force open a window at Carr Gom Support Services at Glenshellach Business Park with the intent to steal on June 29 this year was just one of 10 charges admitted by James McMillan last week.

McMillan, 26, currently in East Dunbartonshire’s Low Moss Prison, had pleaded guilty in writing to a series of attempted break-ins and thefts between June and July this year – including stealing an air purifier from a residents’ common area at Oban’s Westbay Apartments.

The court was told how during those dates McMillan kicked and damaged doors at those apartments, was seen hanging round the Great Western Hotel without lawful authority so it could reasonably be inferred he intended to commit theft.

He also broke into a shed in McKelvie Road in the town and stole a tent and a quantity of plant pots.

McMillan also broke into a common close at McKelvie Road and stole a mountain bike, while a guesthouse owner in Soroba Road had spotted him trying car doors.

He also broke into another shed at Combie Street and stole another mountain bike. He was traced to the theft after the owner found a couple of receipts and police matched them with CCTV footage they checked at the shop. The Carr Gom incident happened on June 29 this year.

The court heard how in one incident, only half an hour after being released from Oban Police Station, he had tried to open a back door at Westbay Apartments.

Police were called and found a number of metal post boxes had also been forcibly opened. CCTV showed the accused had been in the area.

Sheriff Patrick Hughes called for reports, remanded McMillan in custody and adjourned the case until November 6.