A drunk thief who attempted to lift and steal a motorbike was jailed for four months.
James Dunnigan, 56, of Finlow Terrace, admitted attempting to steal the motorbike and being in possession of a knife in the early hours of Monday September 15.
Depute fiscal Charmaine Gilmartin told the court that the owner of the bike saw Dunnigan attempt to lift the bike, which had fallen over at the bottom of his drive.
Mrs Gilmartin said the owner went outside, got in his van and followed Dunnigan, who had abandoned his attempts to steal the bike.
The court heard when police arrived Dunnigan dropped a 6cm knife and was also found with a bag with screwdrivers, pliers, a chisel and a hammer. It is believed the knife was used as a tool for stealing.
Defence solicitor Gary McIlravey said by his own admission Dunnigan had been drunk when he attempted to carry off the bike, which was damaged during the failed attempt.
Mr McIlravey said: “He has had great difficulties with alcohol for a number of years and would appreciate some assistance with that.”
Sheriff Alastair Brown told Dunnigan: “You went out equipped to steal and intending to steal and you stole.”
