Weapon nets fine

£400 for possession

Police found a white and red kitchen knife

A Coatbridge man has been handed a heavy fine after being caught in possession of a knife.

William McPhee, 31, was found with the bladed object in the passenger seat pocket of the car he was driving when police officers stopped him on May 13.

He pleaded guilty to the offence and was fined £400 at Airdrie Sheriff Court last week.

The procurator fiscal said: “It was around 6.50pm when police officers stopped a vehicle on Lomond Road in Coatbridge.

“They had reason to search the accused and while doing so found a white and red kitchen knife in the seat pocket of the front passenger seat.

“He was arrested and taken to Coatbridge police office where he was held in custody before appearing at court on May 15.”

McPhee was represented by John McGeechan who said in the Espieside Street resident’s defence: “My client indicated the knife’s presence to the officers.

“He is regarded as being a low-risk reoffender and is in good employment.

“The reports available on him are favourable and indicate he can complete unpaid work or pay a fine at a rate of £40 per week.”

Addressing McPhee, Sheriff Petra Collins told him: “You will be fined £400.

“This is payable at the rate suggested by your solicitor.

“If you miss any instalment you’ll appear back here and be sentenced all over again for a breach.”