A Forfar man who became aggressive while trying to sell a stolen ring to a pawnbroker was jailed for 10 months at Forfar Sheriff Court.
Ian Keith Gallacher, of Don Street, admitted that he stole a pair of earrings and a ring from an address at Wellbraehead in Forfar on February 2.
The following day the 33-year-old caused fear and alarm to an employee at the Cheque Centre in Forfar’s Castle Street by uttering threats as he attempted to sell the stolen ring.
Depute fiscal Jill Drummond told the court: “He handed over a gold ring with a purple gem.
“The employee examined the ring and handed it back to the accused.
“He stated that he had changed his mind because he wasn’t happy with the price and put it back in a carrier bag.
“However, he then changed his mind again and handed the box over to the employee.
“When she opened the box the ring wasn’t there and the accused insinuated that the worker had stolen the ring.
“The accused became aggressive and was asked to leave. When he didn’t the employee said that she would call the police.”
Gallacher left but later returned, stating that he had spoken to his solicitor about the ring and been advised to search on the shop’s floor.
“There was no sign of the ring,” Ms Drummond added.
“The accused then told the employee ‘watch when you leave because you are not making it home tonight’.
“The accused then left the locus but the employee was frightened by what the accused had said and contacted police.”
The depute fiscal said the ring and earrings had been reported as stolen by an acquaintance of Gallacher’s who he had seen at a friend’s house the previous night.
After he was arrested Gallacher was taken to the police headquarters in Dundee and was searched by police.
A packet of powder was found concealed in his bottom.
He was asked by officers to remove the packet, but he instead inserted it further. He then removed it and tried to swallow the package.
At court Gallacher also admitted obstructing the officers.
All the offences took place when Gallacher was on bail.
Defence agent Billy Rennie said: “He understands and accepts that his record will likely lead to only one disposal.”
Mr Rennie said his client had just come out of prison the day before he stole the items.
“As soon as he came out he was offered and took drugs,” he added.
“All the events on the complaint he has little or no recollection of.”
Sheriff Pino Di Emidio said he had “no option” but to impose a custodial sentence.