Balaclava-wearing teen awaits fate after attacking and robbing cyclist in Inverness

A teenager who attacked a passing cyclist and robbed him of his mobile phone hopes he will be assessed as suitable for a drug treatment and testing order to help him stop offending.

Nathan Bell (19), described as a detainee at Polmont YOI, had appeared before Sheriff Ian Cruickshank to admit the assault and robbery and have his sentence deferred for an initial assessment while he was in custody.

When he re-appeared, defence solicitor Marc Dickson successfully asked that his client be bailed so the second and final assessment could be done along with an up-to-date background report.

He will return to court on October 9.

Bell's co-accused, 18-year-old Calum Ross, was sent to detention for 16 months earlier this summer.

Fiscal depute Robert Weir told the court that the incident happened at about 8pm on January 4 in Inverness High Street.

She said the cyclist became aware of Ross and Bell running towards him with Bell wearing a balaclava.

"He (Ross) punched him off his bike and both began punching and kicking him on the head and body.

"They demanded his mobile phone and threatened to stab him if he reported the robbery to the police. Ross then stamped on the bicycle several times as it lay on the road."

Ross's victim sustained cuts, bruises and a lump to his head near the hairline.

Mr Dickson told the court then: "My client cites drug difficulties for his offending and a treatment and testing order initial assessment may assist the court."