A thief who targeted a city jewellers before offering a security guard a “square go” has been jailed.
Ian Stewart also behaved abusively in front of children and staff at Ninewells Hospital after a drug-fuelled bender.
The 43-year-old admitted stealing jewellery – worth £189 – from Swarovski in the Overgate on Sunday.
Stewart, of no fixed abode, also behaved in an aggressive manner, threatened and struggled violently with security guards David Hunter and Steven Howarth before challenging them both to a fight.
>> Keep up to date with the latest news with The Tele newsletter
Dundee Sheriff Court heard that Stewart took “umbrage” at being approached by the pair.
Fiscal depute Kirsten Letford said: “The accused stated he would beat them up, and then said to one ‘me and you outside’ and ‘we’ll have a square go’.
“He made a motion to do so, moving his head towards that person.
“When the police arrived he stated he would batter the security guards.”
After being arrested and taken to police headquarters, Stewart claimed he had taken 50 blue Valium tablets.
He was transported to the A&E department at Ninewells Hospital and, while there, continued to shout and swear despite the efforts of police to remove him.
Defence solicitor Jim Caird said Stewart was “thoroughly ashamed” of his actions.
He said: “Quite clearly he has no recollection whatsoever, having had the summary of evidence read over to him, but he takes responsibility for his actions.”
Sheriff Alistair Carmichael said: “This behaviour is unacceptable, threatening security guards and in the A&E department where staff and children were present.
“The only appropriate sentence is a custodial one.”
Stewart was sentenced to a total of 10 months in prison.
This article originally appeared on the Evening Telegraph website. For more information, read about our new combined website.