Inverness man abused his 86-year-old mum
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A SHERIFF told an Inverness man he needed to "take a long hard look at his behaviour" when he appeared from custody charged with behaving in a threatening and abusive manner towards his 86 year-old mother and his sister.
Joseph Shields (56) threw a glass chopping board and overturned a glass-topped coffee table causing both to smash when he was refused a cigarette at his home in Carnarc Crescent, Inverness on Sunday.
Appearing from custody at Inverness Sheriff Court on Monday he pleaded guilty to the offence.
Depute fiscal Rowena Carlton said the incident happened about 6.30pm in the living room.
Shields began shouting and swearing at his mother when she refused to give him a cigarette. Then he threw the chopping board and turned the coffee table over. His sister became involved and she feared for her safety and the police were called.
Neil Wilson, solicitor, said Shields had a long standing problem with alcohol but when asked to do community payback orders he complied.
Sheriff Sara Matheson ordered Shields to carry out 60 hours of unpaid work.
She told him: ""What appalling behaviour to your own mother at her age. You need to have a long hard look at yourself. I am imposing this order to keep you busy and away from alcohol."
