Policemen who lied to frame two men are fined

May 8 2008

TWO Blantyre-based policemen who lied to frame two men for breach of the peace have been fined.

Neil Jones (35) and Andrew MacRobert (28) were found guilty of bringing false charges against Bothwell men William Reid and Callum McCaig, both aged 22, at their trial at Hamilton Sheriff Court last month.

At Hamilton Sheriff Court yesterday (Wednesday), Jones was fined £2000 by Sheriff Rae Small, while MacRobert was also fined £1250.

The careers of the two policemen remain in the balance. They have been suspended from the force for the past two years.

A Strathclyde Police spokesman said: “Both men remain suspended and a report will be submitted to the deputy chief constable for his consideration.”

During their trial, Jones and MacRobert claimed that Mr Reid and Mr McCaig had been shouting and swearing in the street after a night out.

The officers charged them both with breach of the peace.

But after hearing evidence last month, Sheriff Rae Small decided the officers had made up the charge.

Mr Reid has worked as an intern at Hamilton solicitors Nicholas J Scullion and Co in Campbell Street in the past.

He made a complaint against the officers two years ago.