A Dundee man spent the weekend of his 60th birthday behind bars after “letting time get away from him” and breaching his curfew.
Robert Robertson appeared from custody at Dundee Sheriff Court and admitted breaching his bail conditions.
Robertson was picked up in the early hours of Sunday on Brown Street – home to late night establishments including Duke’s Corner.
He had been placed on a curfew before being sentenced on another matter in court in December.
The rules of his bail, granted on May 2 this year, required Robertson to remain in his Ancrum Place home between 7pm and 7am every night.
But he failed to return home and he spent time in a police jail cell until his Monday appearance in the dock.
Prison considered
Defence solicitor David Sinclair appeared on Robertson’s behalf and said in mitigation: “Alcohol is at the root of this offence.
“He had gone out for a drink on his 60th birthday and tells me he allowed time to get away with him.
“He did not get back home in time.”
Sheriff John MacRitchie took a dim view on the offence, telling Robertson he could be jailed for a longer term as a result of the breach.
He said: “I note that you have a limited record, mainly road traffic offences.
“This is the sum total of your offending and you will be appearing for sentencing on December 2.
“Had there been any substantive offending I would have jailed you without blinking.
“Maybe a custodial sentence can be avoided in due course.
“I suspect you will be remanded if you do not take advantage of this chance.
“I’m going to order full reports because if it was me (sentencing you on December 2) I would be wondering if custody is appropriate.”
Robertson, of Ancrum Place, had his case adjourned until December 2 for reports to be made and for this case to call alongside other matters.
