JAMES THOMSON OF ALEXANDRIA BRIEFLY REMANDED IN CUSTODY AT DUMBARTON SHERIFF COURT

A man from Alexandria, James Thomson, was briefly detained in custody at Dumbarton Sheriff Court this week after the sheriff ordered an investigation into whether he had knowingly failed to inform social workers of his change of address.

Thomson appeared for sentencing on charges of assaulting a woman at a residence in Alexandria, during which he caused her to flee for safety by destroying household items, including a television and a mirror. The sentencing had been postponed from an earlier hearing to allow for a background report, but the court was told that Thomson had missed a scheduled appointment with social workers needed to complete the report.

Thomson’s solicitor explained that he had moved on January 17 but did not inform social workers of his new address until six days later. The 31-year-old had previously been released on bail after pleading guilty to the offenses that occurred at a property in Pappert, Alexandria, on October 7. He also admitted to breaching his bail conditions by contacting his victim at a residence in Braehead eight days after the incident.

When requesting that Thomson’s bail be extended, his solicitor asked for one final opportunity. However, Sheriff William Gallacher responded firmly, stating that Thomson had displayed contempt for the court. The sheriff noted that there had been multiple requests to update his address and questioned why the court and social workers should have to chase him down to ensure he met his obligations.

As a result, Sheriff Gallacher decided to adjourn the case and remand Thomson into custody while he was brought back to court an hour later. Thomson’s solicitor updated that Thomson was now living with his mother at a property on Union Street, Alexandria. Prior to this, Thomson had been residing in supported housing for former military personnel and was employed as a sous chef at a golf club.

The case was adjourned until March 2 to allow for the preparation of the report previously ordered. Sheriff Gallacher told Thomson he would be allowed to remain on bail on the condition that he attend a scheduled meeting with social workers for the report. The sheriff warned that failure to attend would result in Thomson being taken into custody.