Man who brandished hammer is spared prison sentence

A man who breached the peace by brandishing a hammer has been spared a prison sentence.

But Adam Nelson, 27, of Undirhoul, Scalloway, has been warned his future is “squarely” in his own hands following the release of a background report.

He was handed a two year supervision order and told to wear a tag for three months.

Nelson previously admitted pulling out a hammer from his trousers as he stood at the bus stop in the town’s King Harald Street.

Sentence was deferred until today’s date for social workers to compile a report on him.

Defence agent Tommy Allan admitted Nelson had a “substantial record” of previous convictions, which made custody the most obvious outcome in the case.

But he stressed there had been a period of good behaviour, and urged sheriff Philip Mann to take account of the background report where “an appropriate level of remorse” had been demonstrated.

He added Nelson had already spent five weeks in custody in relation to the offence.

“I have spoken to him and he is aware an alternative to custody today doesn’t mean that it’s over and done with, and if he doesn’t comply with an order of the court he’ll be in serious trouble. For him that will mean only one thing.”

Sheriff Mann told Nelson: “I said the last time you were here the most likely disposal would be a custodial sentence. Since then I’ve had the benefit of a criminal justice social work report.

“It’s clear you do have a very, very extensive record. The first knee-jerk reaction would be to say ‘this man is not going to behave and the only thing to do with him is lock him up.'”

However he added: “I can take a chance with you on this occasion because the report indicates you may be at the point of turning your life around. I’m going to put the matter squarely in your hands.

“If you breach either of these orders you will be brought back here and I can tell you, without a shadow of a doubt, you will go to prison for your offence.”