Blantyre man assaulted sister’s partner in Ne’erday row

Nov 20 2008 by Graham Fraser, Hamilton Advertiser

A NE’ERDAY assault on his sister’s partner has cost a Blantyre man £2500.

David Henderson (26), of Craig Street, punched John Dempsey on the head, knocking him to the ground.

Mr Dempsey was left permanently disfigured following the attack in Hamilton’s Campbell Street on New Year’s Day, 2008.

At Hamilton Sheriff Court last week, Henderson appeared for sentence.

The court heard that Henderson and his family, along with Mr Dempsey, had been on a night out in Hamilton to celebrate New Year.

But Henderson then had a disagreement with Mr Dempsey and assaulted him.

Nicholas Scullion Senior, defending, told the court: “Mr Henderson and Mr Dempsey were friends. They still are friends.

“Mr Henderson realises that this is a very serious matter. He is very remorseful. He has been in a constant state of panic about what would happen to him today in court.

“The social work reports on him show that there is a very low risk of re-offending.

“Mr Henderson is aware of the serious nature of this case and he is more than happy to pay compensation to the victim.”

Sentencing Henderson, Sheriff Joyce Powrie said: “Due to your personal circumstances and the good background reports on you, I will not put you in custody.”

Sheriff Powrie then fined Henderson £2000.

Henderson will also have to pay an additional £500 compensation to Mr Dempsey.