DNA kit traces race hate teenager

'Spit kit' technology led to the youth's conviction

A teenager who spat at a bus driver is reported to be the first in Scotland to have been convicted after his DNA was traced using a "spit kit".

Scott Morrison,17, was caught after a sample of his saliva was taken and checked by police against nearly two million DNA records.

He was one of a group who refused to pay their fares when they got on a First bus in the centre of Glasgow.

He was fined £300 after being found guilty at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

Morrison was convicted of racially aggravated breach of the peace and assault.

The court heard that when the gang finally left the bus Morrison spat in the driver's face and shouted racist remarks at him.

This was obviously a very unpleasant experience which I wouldn't want other people to go through Bus driver

The group set off passenger alarm bells on the bus, before escaping.

The driver raised the alarm using the radio installed on the vehicle.

Three passengers came forward and volunteered to give evidence on behalf of the victim.

The driver, who did not want to be named, said: "This was obviously a very unpleasant experience which I wouldn't want other people to go through.

"I'm pleased that one of the youths who attacked me was convicted and fined."

He added: "It also shows that people are no longer getting away with these disgusting attacks against innocent people."

Train spitting crackdown

Bus company security manager Alan Pert said: "We are delighted that DNA profiling has resulted in a conviction on this occasion.

"All our drivers are supplied with these kits, which have been a powerful deterrent to people spitting on drivers."

Police spokesman Chief Inspector Donnie MacLeod added: "This is an example of how developments in technology have assisted in the fight against crime.

"Strathclyde Police will continue to work closely with First in a bid to improve passenger and driver safety on public transport."

Staff working for ScotRail were issued with 'spit kits' in April and it was also announced that traffic wardens in Edinburgh were to be issued with swab packs.