A man who stormed through a Toby Carvery in Aberdeen and verbally abused a family as they ate their Sunday dinner has apologised for his “reprehensible” behaviour.
Terry Brannan, 38, had to be subdued by staff after he burst into the Cocket Hat on North Anderson Drive and immediately began shouting, screaming and swearing aggressively at the group.
The trouble continued when police arrived, with Brannan assaulting one officer.
A sheriff told Brannan that he should be “ashamed” of his actions that day.
Accused struggled with waiters
Fiscal depute Lydia Ross told the court that at around 6.30pm on April 17 this year the family were seated at a table within the popular restaurant when Brannan ran in and began verbally berating them.
“Witnesses saw the accused storm through the restaurant aggressively and waiters became aware of him shouting and swearing towards a family,” she said.
“Staff were seen by customers trying to herd the accused back and attempt to escort him from the restaurant.
“After a brief struggle, the accused was brought to the ground and police arrived.”
Ms Ross said Brannan assaulted one of the officers during a further struggle.
He also continued to “act in an erratic manner” within the police van.
Brannan pleaded guilty to one charge of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner towards customers and staff of the Cocket Hat.
He also admitted to a second charge of assaulting a police officer.
‘He realises his behaviour was unacceptable’
Defence agent Debbie Ginniver described her client’s behaviour as “entirely disgraceful conduct”.
She added: “A family were simply enjoying their meal – he realises his behaviour was unacceptable.
“Mr Brannan was struggling with his mental health at the time and had been abusing alcohol to cope.
“He had failed to take his prescribed medication that day and he is ashamed of his behaviour.
“Mr Brannan would like to apologise to the family who was at the restaurant.”
Sheriff William Summers told Brannan: “Your behaviour was reprehensible and you should be ashamed as this was no doubt distressing for those affected.
“However, I understand the underlying issues you were suffering at the time.”
Sheriff Summers fined Brannan, of Summerhill Road, Aberdeen, a total of £940.
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