A Dundee man has admitted repeatedly shocking a homeless accommodation “bully” with a stun gun.
Darren Petrie, 35, was staying on Sugarhouse Wynd during the Covid pandemic and heard a friend had been “bullied” by another resident, John West.
Petrie shocked Mr West between six and 10 times, before being asked to stop by another man.
He then shocked the friend who had originally complained.
He followed this up by sticking the electric self-defence item into his own leg and discharging it.
Dundee Sheriff Court heard Petrie – a serial offender with 17 previous convictions – bought the weapon from Chinese website Wish for £10.
Shocked two, then himself
Depute fiscal Stewart Duncan said: “In June 2020 Petrie produced a taser.
“His acquaintance Jamie Young joined him and told Petrie he was being picked on by John West.
“Petrie went to West’s room and repeatedly shocked him between six and ten times.
“West told police he could feel electricity surge through his body and that he was tasered about 10 times.
“A Mr Pierce asked him to stop.
“Both Mr Pierce and Mr Young sat on Petrie’s bed.
“Petrie then stuck the taser into Mr Young’s foot five to six times.
“The weapon was described as being about four inches long and made a ‘zapping’ sound and produced a small blue lightning bolt.
“The accused then stuck himself in the leg.”
Possible prison term
The court heard the stun gun was never found but a forensic scientist was able to ascertain what it was during a police investigation.
The case was originally due to call at the High Court but was reduced to sheriff court level at a later date.
Petrie admitted assaulting both men with the stun gun on April 11 2020.
He further admitted possessing the weapon without permission – a crime which can attract a five-year prison sentence.
Cheap – but dangerous
Defence solicitor Douglas McConnell, in mitigation for Petrie, said: “This matter has been before the court for three years.
“The locus was a homeless facility. Petrie had alcohol difficulties at the time.
“He bought the item from Wish for £10.
“He did not think something so cheap would be so dangerous.
“He regrets his actions.
“He is now out of the accommodation and is living independently.”
Sheriff Alastair Carmichael deferred sentence on Petrie, of Dura Street, until May 2.
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