Sheriff's warning to drunk teens

Concerns over teen offences were voiced at Selkirk Sheriff Court

A sheriff in the Borders has warned drunken 16-year-olds they face jail if they continue to commit offences of violence and public disorder.

Kevin Drummond told Selkirk Sheriff Court he was concerned at the amount of court time spent on such cases.

He said he would have no hesitation in putting them in custody if that was what it took to get the message across.

He was speaking while deferring sentence on two Galashiels 16-year-olds who had admitted offences while drunk.

Social concern

Sheriff Drummond also pointed out that he had dealt with a number of cases of drunk 16-year-olds committing crime at a sitting of Jedburgh Sheriff Court last week.

"This is a matter of social concern," he said.

"I feel too much court time is being taken up with the cases involving drunk 16-year-olds.

"Those who participate in the purchase and supply of alcohol for under age people also have a social responsibility."