Unpaid work for accused

Threw stones at rock festival court hears

Gary MacAlpine resented being refused admission to a Caithness rock festival and registered his displeasure by throw a handful of stones into the arena.
MacAlpine, 23, admitted culpable and reckless behaviour and a record, at Wick Sheriff Court yesterday. He was ordered to carry out 100 hours unpaid community service.
The court was told that the accused didn't have enough money for admission to B-fest at Wick on August 17, and appealed to stewards for a discount. Shortly after the request was turned down, MacAlpine, of 29 Cairndhuna Terrace, Wick, grabbed a handful of stones and threw them over the perimeter fence into the arena where some 2000 patrons were enjoying the festival.
David Barclay, prosecuting, said that, fortunately, none of them were struck but there had, nevertheless, been the potential for serious consequences.
Sheriff Andrew Berry, commenting on MacAlpine's "juvenile behaviour", said that as the accused had caused a degree of risk to the public, he could put something back to the community through unpaid work.
The sheriff warned, however, that if there was any suggestion of non-coperation by the accused he would face a custodial sentence.