Ross-shire man nearly three times over drink-drive limit before being abusive towards police officers

A man nearly three times the drink-drive limit became abusive towards police when he was found behind the wheel of a vehicle after a fight in the city centre.

Callum Ross (22) was found in charge of the vehicle by police in Church Street, Inverness on February 2.

Fiscal depute Martina Eastwood told Sheriff Ian Cruickshank at Inverness Sheriff Court that police were made aware of a fight taking place in the city’s Queensgate at about 3.18am that morning.

“Police witnesses observed on CCTV three men running away from the scene and getting into a car,” she said.

“Police arrived at the scene just after they had got in the car.

“The accused was approached and asked to get out of the driver’s seat. He was hesitant and abusive towards the police, and aggressive.

“He was put in cuffs and CCTV followed the arrest along the street. He was asked to desist his behaviour.

“When he was in the police van he lunged his body towards police officers and was placed on ground with straps.

“He was conveyed to Burnett Road police station where a breath sample was provided.”

Ross had 61mg of alcohol in his breath. The legal limit is 22mg.

Ross, of Cromlet Park, Invergordon, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the legal limit.

He also admitted resisting arrest and hindering police officers in the execution of their duty and was fined a total of £850.

Defence solicitor David Patterson said: “He recalls little of the incident due to the level of alcohol.

“He is remorseful and accepts his conduct was unacceptable.”