Inverness woman repeatedly coughed in face of police officer
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A 24-year-old Inverness mother was given a further chance by a sheriff to stay out of jail when she appeared for sentencing for repeatedly coughing in the face of a police officer.
Earlier this year, Courney Smith, of Myrtletown Park, Westhill, had been ordered to co-operate with intense social work involvement.
But Smith didn't, failed to turn up for a court appearance to answer the non-compliance and was then arrested and remanded in custody.
She had previously admitted shouting and swearing at police in Aignish Drive, Inverness and Burnett Road Police Station on September 8, 2020.
She also pleaded guilty to culpable and reckless conduct in the presence of a constable during the same incident and claiming she would get Covid.
Defence solicitor advocate Clare Russell told Sheriff Eilidh Macdonald that her client had written to the court indicating "some insight into her offending".
It was read by the sheriff and Ms Russell continued: "Her father and brother are currently in custody and this is the first time she had not previously served a custodial sentence.
"It has been a salutary lesson for her. Her mother had died a short time prior to these offences and she dealt with it by illicit substances and alcohol.
"It resulted in the abhorrent behaviour."
Sheriff Macdonald, who previously described Smith's behaviour as "appalling" told Smith via a video link: "There is only one way to stay out of jail and that is to comply with court orders.
"I accept you have had a difficult time but now is the time to move on and regulate your own behaviour."
Sheriff Macdonald placed Smith on a community payback order with 18 months of social work supervision.
But she warned her: "If you don't comply, you will go to jail. This is your opportunity."
In addition, Sheriff Macdonald ordered a review of her progress to be considered on February 1 next year.
