A teenager had to be taken to hospital after injuring himself while robbing a north-east shop.
Jay Alexander, 18, was seen repeatedly throwing a brick against the window of Gaelo Jewellery in Alford before it smashed and he gained entry to the property.
While he made off with a number of items, he was apprehended by police several hours later after one of his former teachers pointed him out to officers.
But he had to be taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary by ambulance because he had injured his right hand during the break in.
That afternoon officers recovered the jewellery and gave it back to the owner.
They also searched Alexander’s house on East Gallow Hill, Alford, where they found a small quantity of cannabis.
He confessed to the robbery, which took place on January 2, and being in possession of the drug, valued at £30, during an earlier appearance at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
He returned yesterday to be sentenced.
Representing the teenager, defence agent Les Green asked for the sentence to be deferred to avoid it blighting his client’s career prospects.
He said: “He has worked with the Prince’s Trust and has a desire to become involved in that as an instructor.”
Sheriff Philip Mann said: “I’m prepared to deal with this without considering a custodial sentence.”
He deferred sentencing on the youngster for nine months so that he could demonstrate good behaviour, saying that the court would be more lenient if he stays out of trouble.
The sheriff added: “If not, it will be a completely different story.”
