A MAN has pleaded guilty to kicking out at a police officer when he was arrested.

Joseph Plews, of Swanson Road, Alexandria, was taken to Clydebank police office on another matter and arrived there just after 11pm on August 13.

While the 26-year-old was at the charge bar, he kicked out with his left foot and struck the constable on the left knee cap.

The court was told he was not interviewed at the time "due to his aggressive nature and intoxicated state".

Defence solicitor Brian McGuire acknowledged his client had two similar past convictions and had recently completed a community payback order.

He added: "He was under the influence on that occasion. He indicated he was depressed. He went to the doctor and was prescribed anti-depressants but took the view he didn't want to take them.

"He was under the influence of Valium and alcohol."

Plews has been in custody since the offence last month and the court was told he was working with the prison's mental health team in that time.

Sheriff John Hamilton deferred sentence until October 6 while reports are prepared. Plews will remain in custody.