Bressay man admits trying to break into car garage and shop

An unemployed man admitted attempting to break into two commercial premises in Lerwick with intent to steal when appeared from custody at Lerwick Sheriff Court today.

Gregor Manson, 32, of Hillside, Bressay, pleaded guilty to both charges. The court heard that in the first attempt, at Burgess’ Garage, Holmsgarth, a neighbour had been woken up yesterday by the noise of Manson trying to force open a side door. When challenged, Manson made off and police were called. They were made aware by the neighbour of an attempt to break into the Staneyhill Shop by forcing a rear window.

Police found Manson hiding in a coal bunker with a bag containing tools, including a crow bar and claw hammer. He also had gloves with him. The items have been forfeited.
Defence solicitor Tommy Allan said that Manson had been drinking and the break-ins “seemed like a good idea” as he was “fed up of having no money”. Manson had “allowed himself to be persuaded to do it”, Mr Allan said.

However this was not accepted by procurator fiscal Duncan MacKenzie, who said that Manson had left home equipped to break in to commercial premises. No-one else was there, and it was not a “prank” or a “spur of the moment” idea “provoked by the overtures of others”.

Honorary Sheriff Eric Peterson called for reports to be prepared before Manson appears in court again next month. Meanwhile Manson was released on bail with a curfew imposed which will restrict him to his home between 8pm and 7am. He was told he would have to answer the door to any police officer during those hours.