Jailed for resisting

Public service people are entitled to respect says sheriff

A MAN who resisted arrest, was jailed for four months yesterday by a sheriff who stressed that there must be respect for people in public service.
Stephen Gemmell, 30, didn't go quietly and during a struggle police constable Alastair Bryce was thrown off balance and fell against his police vehicle striking his head causing him injury. The accused ran away but was traced later.
Gemmell, of 1B North Murchison Street, admitted a charge of obstruction at Harrowhill, Wick, on May 17, and a record, at Wick Sheriff Court yesterday.
Solicitor Fiona MacDonald said that the accused had been leading "a rather chaotic life" and had not been addressing the problems he faced.
She added however: "He has demonstrated that he can go for long periods without offending".
Sheriff Andrew Berry described Gemmell's behaviour in his latest offence as "disgraceful" and added: "The officer's injury caused his colleagues and family concern. Anyone in public service is entitled to be treated with respect in the course of their employment."
The sheriff expressed the hope that Gemmell would turn over a new leaf on his release from prison.