Highland man challenged cops to a fight after being put in a cell

A Thurso man admitted charges of threatening and obstructive behaviour and assault, a court heard.

Officers had to repeatedly enter the cell he was in to prevent Michael Cannop, 40, from self-harming, Wick Sheriff Court was told.

Sentence was deferred on Cannop, said to be taking medication for mental health issues. He admitted the charges and a record.

The court was told that he started threatening violence toward police officers, soon after being detained at Wick police station on August 26, saying he would use a shovel, a pick-axe or a jack hammer.

After being put in a cell, Cannop, of Claredon Place, Thurso, challenged the police to come in and fight him.

Fiscal depute, Robert Weir said that at various stages, officers had to enter the cell and remove Cannop’s clothing to prevent him using it to harm himself.

Police officers tried several times to get Cannop to calm down.

Sentence was deferred until January 18 when Sheriff Andrew Berry, who granted bail, will see a background report and hear from defence solicitor, Fiona MacDonald..