AN INMATE at HMP Glenochil has pleaded guilty to assaulting a prison guard following a row over cutlery.

Gary Marshall (28) was given a further sentence in excess of five months when he appeared at Alloa Sheriff court on Thursday (October 23).

He was charged with attacking Stuart Wilson on 20 February 2014 after Marshall was warned of disciplinary action being taken against him.

Fiscal Depute David McDonald told the court how Marshall attacked Mr Wilson in his cell before punching him repeatedly in the head before scratching his face.

He said: “The incident came following a row over cutlery. The accused was sent to his cell at which point Mr Wilson entered the cell and informed the accused that he was on report.

“The accused then leapt forward to attack Mr Wilson.” Mr McDonald then said it took the efforts of other prison officers to restrain and control Marshall during the incident.

In mitigation, Andrew Robb, defending, said Marshall was in a state of despair following his actions and that he suffered from a range of mental health problems.

He said: “Mr Marshall tells me he is sorry for putting the officer through the ordeal and he places no blame on him whatsoever.

“He has described to me feelings of despair and desperation as a result of his situation and he recognises the seriousness of the offence.

“However, he has a range of mental health problems and suffers from depression, anxiety, paranoia and personality disorders. He is also on the autistic scale.

“Given these underlying conditions, the community would be better protected with Mr Marshall at large and under supervision.” However, Sheriff Derek O’Carroll viewed the matter as much too grave for a commuted sentenced and handed Marshall an additional 21 weeks in prison.

He said: “As your solicitor rightly pointed out, the crime you are charged with is a very serious one – assaulting a prison guard in the course of his duties.

“You accept that it is unprovoked and I take into account your remorse. However, a custodial sentence is the only appropriate disposal I can see here.” Sheriff O’Carroll added the sentence was reduced from 26 weeks after Marshall entered a guilty plea.