A Renfrew man allegedly subject to two attempted murder bids has admitted breaching his curfew while subject to multiple court orders.
William Pinkerton was granted bail at Paisley Sheriff Court on May 6 last year with the condition he must remain within his Paisley Road home between 7pm and 7am each day and present himself at the door when requested to do so by police.
But on August 25, he breached this condition by being outwith his home and at Gala Avenue and Dean Park Road, both in Renfrew, after midnight.
The 42-year-old pleaded guilty to breaching his curfew while he was also subject to two bail orders made at Paisley Sheriff Court granted in November 2023 and March 2024.
Procurator fiscal depute Karen Yuill said the circumstances speak for themselves and told the court: “Police attended shortly before half past midnight and the accused was stopped by officers. It was his belief his bail order had ceased and it hadn’t.”
Responding, Pinkerton’s defence agent said: “He has an extensive record, however, less so in recent times.
“He has had two attempts on his life and two of the accused have been given High Court sentences as a result of pleading guilty.
“These attacks have left him with long-term difficulties and he keeps in poor health. He is on benefits but could pay a financial penalty in instalments.”
Sheriff Eoin McGinty slammed Pinkerton and said: “When the court places someone on bail, especially when they are on bail, it is imperative the conditions of that order are complied with.
“Given his extensive record, I don’t think a fine is appropriate. I will call for a restriction of liberty order assessment to be carried out.”
Sentence was deferred for an assessment to be carried out at Pinkerton’s home to assess if he is suitable to wear a tag.
He had his bail order continued meantime and will return to court for sentencing on February 21.
The Paisley Daily Express previously reported that, on July 19, 2021, just seven weeks after Stephen Paterson had been released early from a two-year sentence for having a sword, he attacked Pinkerton with a blade “because he didn’t like him”.
The High Court in Stirling heard Pinkerton had just been dropped off at his home. Paterson and another man saw him, followed him and went on to force entry into his flat.
When Pinkerton fell to the floor, Paterson struck him with the knife, slashing down on the right side of his neck with “considerable force” close to the carotid artery.
Paterson pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow to attempted murder and was sentenced to five years and three months in prison.
Don’t miss the latest Renfrewshire headlines –sign up to our free daily newsletter here