Police used CS spray to subdue Strathearn teen

Oct 10 2008 Strathearn Herald

POLICE had to use CS spray to subdue a boozed-up Strathearn teenager after he struck an officer on the head with a bag containing glass bottles.

Perth Sheriff Court was told that the incident took place after Stewart McKenzie (17), of Devon Place, Auchterarder, was stopped in the town’s Crown Park on June 20.

Police, who were on mobile patrol, spotted the accused who appeared to be heavily under the influence of alcohol – and also looked under-age.

As an officer tried to obtain his person details, he refused to co-operate and then flung the bag containing the bottles at him.

McKenzie then lashed out violently and the CS spray was used.

As he was being handcuffed, the accused kicked PC Matthew Henry on the head.

The officer was later examined by medical staff and taken off duty.

A solicitor for the accused said his recollection of events was “extremely hazy” because of the amount of alcohol he had consumed.

He had been drinking vodka and beer with friends all that afternoon.

Sheriff Lindsay Foulis said that Mckenzie, who admitted the two assaults, had only escaped detention by the “skin of his teeth.”

Instead, he ordered him to carry out 220 hours of community service and pay £300 compensation to the injured officer.