An Angus teenager involved in a toxic relationship with an under-age girl has been made the subject of a two-year community payback order.
Stephen Gibb, 17, of North Grimsby, Arbroath, was said to have been “abusive and controlling” over his 15-year-old girlfriend during their near year-long romance, which led to assaults on the victim.
In one attack he kneed her in the face, causing bruising and a black eye, an offence admitted by Gibb when he appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court.
He also admitted a charge of assault and breaking a glass panel at an address on Montrose Street, Brechin.
Depute fiscal Hannah Kennedy said the teenage girl did not initially report Gibb’s behaviour to police, although once questioned the accused admitted he “got jealous very quickly”.
One of the assault matters initially led to Gibb appearing on petition, but the matter was reduced after the victim declined to cooperate with medical authorities, which the fiscal said was an indication of the “spell” the accused held over her.
Defence agent Grant Bruce said the relationship was now over and Gibb has no contact with the girl.
“His attitude appears to be maturing and he is now doing volunteering work,” he said.
Gibb was also ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid work and pay £50 compensation for breaking the glass panel.