Detox ordered for man who threatened former neighbour with fake firearm
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A MAN who frightened his former neighbour by brandishing a fake handgun while singing the theme song to the James Bond movie, Goldfinger was ordered by a Sheriff to detox from drink and drugs.
The incident, which occurred on February 1 this year in Anderson Drive, Buckie, caused armed response officers to be deployed at around 11pm to deal with 43-year-old Jody Bruce.
Inverness Sheriff Court was told at a previous hearing that Bruce knocked on a former neighbour’s door and pulled a small black and gold imitation weapon.
The court heard the encounter was captured on CCTV, which showed Bruce asking his female neighbour whether she thought he was joking. He then launching into a rendition of Shirley Bassey’s famous Bond theme song.
Fiscal depute Alison Young said Bruce was intoxicated at the time of the offence.
Footage from the camera at the front door shows the woman asking Bruce not to point the gun at her and Bruce can be heard saying “I want help” and “Phone 999 and get me lifted”, Mrs Young told Sheriff Margaret Neilson.
"He then realises he’s on camera and tells her to delete the footage.
"Police were called and armed response officers were deployed, after which the weapon was confirmed to be an imitation gun."
Sentence had been deferred for a background report on Bruce, now of Marr Place, Keith, who had admitted a single firearms charge.
Defence solicitor Stephen Carty told the court: “He has battled with alcohol and drugs for most of his life and we have a report from the local drug and alcohol service as well as the background report.
"He was heavily under the influence when this took place and it is accepted it must have been a frightening experience for the neighbour."
Sheriff Neilson then interjected having read the reports.
She said: "The drug and alcohol service say they are prepared to bring him in for a residential detox.
"It may be sensible to defer for a period to allow the detox to go ahead. Hopefully he grabs the opportunity with both hands.
"This is a serious offence and with his record, I really have no other option other than to impose a custodial sentence."
Mr Carty agreed and Bruce will re-appear for sentencing on February 7 next year at noon with up to date reports on Bruce's progress to be prepared.
