A MAN has been put under the supervision of social workers for the next 18 months for a breach of the peace and assaulting a police officer. 

But Patrick Maxwell was warned he faced seven to 10 months in jail if he didn’t comply fully with the alternatives.

The 26-year-old, of Park Court, Mountblow, previously admitted repeatedly shouting and swearing on July 7 and to assaulting the cop.

Police were contacted about a report of a disturbance near Argyll Street, Alexandria, and found Maxwell standing on the pavement speaking to a members of the public.

He was topless and appeared to have some minor facial injuries.

Depute fiscal Martina McGuigan said: “A short time later, a male attended next to the accused, believed to be the accused’s father. And this caused the accused to start shouting.”

Maxwell continued to shout and swear and was arrested. He initially calmed down but as the door to the police van cell closed, he kicked out, causing the door to strike an officer’s knee.

He continued to shout and swear. Maxwell was later treated at the RAH for minor injuries.

Maxwell previously was fined for another incident, which later developed into a community payback order and then custody, heard the court.

Sheriff William Gallacher asked Maxwell’s defence solicitor, Gail Campbell, if he would comply with court orders.

She said: “That’s the question. There are positive aspects. I have dealt with Mr Maxwell for some time. There is an alcohol problem. He either gets better or he doesn’t. There’s an underlying issue with drugs.

“Custody has to be considered. He knows that. I shake my head as well my lord. 

“He tells everyone what his issues are - issues that splay out into the public.”

Sheriff Gallacher put Maxwell under supervision for 18 months, a curfew of 7pm to 7am for two months and ordered he do 160 hours of unpaid work.