Would-be thief was ‘steaming’ drunk when attempting to steal motorbike

A thief who attempted to steal a motorbike was “steaming” drunk, according to his defence solicitor.

James Dunnigan, 56, of Finlow Terrace, Dundee, admitted attempting to steal the motorbike and being in possession of a knife in the early hours of Monday.

Depute fiscal Charmaine Gilmartin told Dundee Sheriff Court that the owner of the bike had parked it in his drive and was awoken by the noise of Dunnigan attempting to drag it down the drive.

He opened the window and saw Dunnigan trying to lift the bike which had now fallen on its side at the bottom of the drive.

Mrs Gilmartin said the owner went outside, got in his van and followed Dunnigan who abandoned his attempts to steal the bike.

The court heard that when police arrived Dunnigan dropped a 6cm knife and was also found with a bag with screwdrivers, pliers, a chisel and a hammer.

Defence solicitor Gary McIlravey said by his own admission Dunnigan had been “steaming” drunk when he attempted to carry off the bike.

Some damage was caused to the machine during the incident. Sentencing was deferred until October 13 for reports and Dunnigan was released on bail.