A man who took a “dagger sword” with a 13in blade on a Highland fishing trip was given the maximum amount of community service yesterday.
Darren Fleming, 25, of Montgomery Avenue, Paisley, appeared for sentence at Oban Sheriff Court today.
He was previously found guilty after trial of having it with him without reasonable excuse or lawful authority at Loch Feochan foreshore, Kilmore, on May 3.
Solicitor Laura McManus said: “It was bought as a gift for ornamental purposes and had been sitting in his home gathering dust.
“He was there with his cousins who are experienced fishers, they told him he would need a knife for cutting lines and gutting fish.
“He tells me he took it instead of taking a knife from his kitchen. He accepts it was a completely inappropriate thing to bring. It was foolish.”
Police had spotted the knife as they spoke to Fleming and his two cousins as they were in the process of setting up camp.
Sheriff Douglas Small said: “Sheriff Linda Smith who heard the trial indicated that a community payback order might be appropriate. I will order that you complete 240 hours of unpaid work in the community. That the maximum amount. Obviously I will order forfeiture of the ornamental sword.”
