A sheriff deserted an Angus dangerous driving trial due to his concern over a possible attempt to pervert the course of justice.
Shaun Carmichael, from Montrose, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court yesterday when he denied braking sharply and reversing towards another car in the town’s Wellington Street on June 21 last year.
The 23-year-old was criticised by Sheriff Gregor Murray for behaving like an “immature idiot” during evidence and was told he may face contempt of court charges.
But the court heard two Crown witnesses may also face charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice due to information arising after they gave evidence.
The sheriff told the accused that the case would be deserted with the possibility it would be raised again after investigation.
Sheriff Murray said witnesses in the public gallery “tutted and made comment” during Monday’s evidence, and said he wished to outline his reasons for deserting the trial.
“This morning you acted like an immature idiot,” he told the accused.
“You interfered during the evidence defiantly slouched back stared fiercely and gave me the distinct impression you did not give a care for the authority of the court.
“For this you were kept in custody I hope this has been a salutary lesson to you.”
Carmichael, of Upper Craigo Street, denied applying brakes sharply, causing the driver of the car behind to perform an emergency stop, reversing and forcing the other driver to do the same, and stopping in the middle of the road, causing the driver to go around on the wrong side.