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Would-be thief tried to punch dog during Forfar hotel break-in

The Royal Hotel in Forfar, which has lain empty since 2010.
The Royal Hotel in Forfar, which has lain empty since 2010.

A man who sparked a major police operation in Forfar when he was spotted breaking into an empty hotel has appeared at Arbroath Sheriff Court.

William George Smith (27), of Glenmoy Terrace, Forfar, admitted breaking into the Royal Hotel on Castle Street, Forfar, on Friday, with the intent to steal while on bail.

Depute fiscal Hazel Anderson said Smith broke into the hotel, which has lain empty since 2010, with the intent to steal copper.

She said: “The police received confidential information saying there may be a break-in at the premises on 2pm on Friday.

“Officers attended and saw the accused climbing out of a top-floor window.

“A search dog was sent inside the building and the accused was found on the third floor. He was uncooperative and tried to punch the dog and was bitten in the exchange.

“It was noted that there had been copper piping removed from within the building. He was interviewed and said he had gone to the locus because he had been told there was copper within.

“Because copper had been removed water was pouring into the premises.

“Under caution and charge he stated ‘I was intending to go back at a later date but I fell asleep’.”

Defence agent Billy Rennie said his client had committed the offence just days after being liberated from a six-month prison sentence on January 22.

Mr Rennie said: “He said he had been drinking, went to the hotel because he thought he could make some money out of the derelict building and fell asleep.

“He woke up and left. He hadn’t taken any copper and didn’t have tools with him.”

Sheriff Peter Paterson said he would remand Smith in custody while reports were produced. Sentencing is to take place in Forfar on March 7.

Forfar town centre was the scene of intense police activity on Friday afternoon when a number of officers surrounded the disused hotel.

Tayside Fire and Rescue were called to assist police officers gaining access to the building.