GALASHIELS SEX OFFENDER BREACHED BOOZE BAN
A GALASHIELS man banned from drinking alcohol through a Sexual Offences Prevention Order was spotted by police under the influence at the weekend.At Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday, Dean Smith, 25, of Beech Avenue, pleaded guilty to the offence which happened between Saturday and Sunday in the town’s Melrose Road.
Depute fiscal Tessa Bradley explained how uniformed police officers were in Langlee on Saturday night investigating another unrelated matter when they spotted Smith in the street.
She continued: “At that time they smelt alcohol but merely noted it as they continued their inquiries but passed on the details to the next shift as he seemed under the influence.
“At 9.15am on Sunday officers saw him walking along Melrose Road and again it appeared as if he had consumed alcohol.
“He agreed to provide a specimen of breath which had a reading of 64 microgrammes - the legal limit being 35.
He was detained at that time and made no reply to caution and charge.” Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said: “He is 25 years old and an alcoholic.
The vast majority of offences on his record are drink-related.
“Since being released from custody on September 30 he has tried extremely hard to refrain from drinking.
He says he has refrained from drinking since being released and the incident here was the first time he had a drink since being leased.
“He obviously continues to struggle with his addiction but is seeking help and also has an interview with Farne Salmon in Duns.” Sheriff William Taylor deferred sentence until Friday for information to be provided to the court on what help Smith is receiving and also the outcome of the job interview.
