Young thugs avoid prison after serious assault

Published 31 Mar 2010 10:56

TWO young men from Alloa have avoided a custodial sentence after committing a serious assault.

Steven James (19) and John McMahon (20) appeared at the town's sheriff court on Thursday and admitted repeatedly punching and kicking a man to the head and body to his injury.

The attack took place on 3 October last year at Burgh Mews, McMahon was on bail at the time.

Fiscal depute Gillian Swannie said the complainer was walking home from licensed premises on Mill Street when he became involved in an argument.

He was then punched on either side of his head by both accused and they continued to punch and kick him.

Their victim was later treated at Stirling Royal Infirmary for bruising and scratches around his eye and bruising to his back and ribs.

Jim Savage, James's solicitor, said his client had been actively engaged in punching the accused but did not kick the man.

Mr Savage went on to say James had taken steps to address the cause of his problem which was alcohol.

McMahon's counsel, George Higgins, said he was an active part of a group of people and accepted it was a serious matter. Mr Higgins went on to say that both of the accused were going to Bulgaria to help build an orphanage as part of the Peak Group.

Sheriff David Mackie said, "You are both, in my view, dealing with this in an appropriate manner and are both to be commended. You have taken a tumble and are moving your life in a positive manner."

He went on, "This is a serious matter. If you are a group and something happens you are part of the blame. This merits a custodial sentence but you are being given a chance to continue with your life."

Both James and McMahon were ordered to complete 150 hours of community service.

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