Ex-serviceman jailed for assault on Thurso bobby
A THURSO man who assaulted a police officer and attempted to headbutt him while also failing to comply with a community payback order (CPO) has been given two jail sentences.
James Beresford is obtaining psychological help for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following his army career but Sheriff Andrew Berry did not feel the disorder could be used as an excuse for assault.
Beresford, of Ironside Place, Thurso, was given 108 days’ imprisonment for the assault and three months’ imprisonment for non-compliance with the CPO. The sentences will run concurrently.
The 27-year-old earlier pleaded guilty to the assault on September 21 at East Gills, Thurso, and he has also failed to attend a series of appointments with social workers in relation to his CPO.
Beresford appeared at Wick Sheriff Court on Thursday to hear his fate.
Solicitor Diane Macfarlane said: “I asked Beresford whether he is a ticking time bomb and he advises he is obtaining psychological help for PTSD following his army career,” she said.
“For a long time he was not aware of his difficulty but approximately six months ago he went to get help. He is now in a very supportive relationship with his current partner and feels in the last month there is an element of stability in his life.”
Sheriff Andrew Berry said: “I hope the custodial sentence may cause you to mend your ways.”