Teenager kept in prison after allegedly pushing girl down stairs

A teenager who allegedly pushed a girl down a flight of stairs while on bail has been placed on remand after appearing from custody at Lerwick Sheriff Court.

Shaun Smith, 17, denies carrying out the offence at his home in the town’s Ladies Drive on Sunday.

Procurator fiscal Duncan MacKenzie opposed bail, citing Smith’s list of previous convictions.

Defence agent Tommy Allan said Smith had been holding down a job with his father. He urged Sheriff Philip Mann to release Smith on bail until his trial date on 6th October.

However the sheriff told Smith: “Regards bail, it’s always a very difficult decision for a sheriff, or judge, to take, and there are a number of things to be weighed in the balance.

“I accept you have the presumption of innocence, but the charge is a serious one and, given your record, it is a charge that, if found to be proven, could result in a custodial sentence quite easily.

“I think in the circumstances bail would be inappropriate and in which case you will be remanded in custody.”