The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)

Man accused of attacking alleged murder victim

- JAMIE BUCHAN

Asuspected murder victim was allegedly assaulted at a Perth pub 18 months before his death.

Ian Menzies was found dead in his flat in June, prompting a major police investigat­ion.

His son, Craig Nixon, appeared in court accused of murdering the 55-yearold before allegedly fleeing to London.

Now, in a separate case, Perth man Darryn Calder faces trial for an alleged assault on Mr Menzies in November 2019, which prosecutor­s claim put his life in danger.

The 33-year-old is accused of attacking Mr Menzies at the Sandeman Bar.

It is alleged Calder seized Mr Menzies, threw him to the ground, repeatedly kicked him on the head and body and stamped on his head.

Calder, of Canal Street, Perth, is further accused of assaulting his ex-partner, Chelsea Taylor, at the pub on the same date.

It is alleged he repeatedly seized her by the body, pulled her to the ground and sat on her to her injury.

Prosecutor­s also claim that while outside on Kinnoull Street, Calder behaved in a threatenin­g or abusive manner.

It is alleged he acted aggressive­ly, repeatedly shouted and swore and jumped on to the bonnet of a Ford Fiesta while Ms Taylor was taking refuge inside.

Calder is accused of repeatedly kicking and punching the windows of

“Ian was the best dad, grandad and brother in the world

the car, causing them to smash.

The case called at Perth Sheriff Court in Calder’s absence on Thursday.

Solicitor Paul Ralph tendered pleas of not guilty to the three charges.

A trial was set for November 22.

Floral tributes and messages of condolence were left at the home of Mr Menzies following his sudden death.

Among the bouquets was a Celtic FC top signed by members of his family, and a photograph of the club’s legendary past teams.

In a tribute released through Police Scotland, Mr Menzies’ family said: “Ian was the best dad, grandad and brother in the world. He was caring, respected and loved dearly by friends and family.”

 ??  ?? TRIAL: Ian Menzies, who was found dead in his home earlier this summer, was allegedly assaulted in 2019.
TRIAL: Ian Menzies, who was found dead in his home earlier this summer, was allegedly assaulted in 2019.

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