A Perthshire man’s drug and alcohol-fueled weekend took a destructive turn when he set fire to a hanging basket outside a well-known city centre pub. The incident, which occurred on a Saturday night in November at the Half A Tanner bar, caused minor damage but has raised concerns about public safety in the area.
The individual, identified as 24-year-old John Swanson from Edinburgh, was reportedly seen acting erratically before the incident and was observed carrying a knife. Security footage captured Swanson igniting the pub’s decorative hanging basket. He later confessed to a passerby that he had also set fire to a nearby wheelie bin in Fleshers Vennel, a narrow alleyway near the pub. Fire Crews Respond to City Centre Arson
Two fire engines responded to the scene, though the damage was thankfully limited to approximately £20 worth of property. During his interactions with the public, Swanson alarmingly revealed he was in possession of a wakizashi, a type of traditional Japanese samurai sword. He claimed to be carrying the weapon for self-defence.
Swanson’s actions have been met with disbelief and concern by local residents and business owners. The Half A Tanner, a popular spot amongst Pertshire locals, is known for its friendly atmosphere and community spirit. This incident has left many shaken and questioning the safety of the city centre, particularly during weekend evenings. Mental Health and Addiction Struggles Revealed in Court
Swanson appeared at Perth Sheriff Court, pleading guilty to possessing an offensive weapon, as well as wilfully setting fire to the hanging basket and bin. His defence lawyer revealed a complex picture of underlying mental health challenges and substance abuse issues. Swanson reportedly struggles with autism, ADHD, emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) and is currently awaiting assessment for a potential schizotypal personality disorder.
The court heard that Swanson’s destructive behaviour stemmed from a four-day period of drug and alcohol consumption, exacerbated by the recent reconciliation with his partner and emotional turmoil. He explained that he was ‘not in the right headspace’ at the time of the incidents and expressed remorse for his actions.
Despite the seriousness of the offences, particularly carrying a bladed weapon, Sheriff Clair McLachlan deferred Swanson’s sentencing for six months, pending assessment of his progress in addressing his mental health and addiction problems. She emphasized that this deferral served as a chance for Swanson to demonstrate his commitment to rehabilitation and to remain law-abiding.
Swanson informed the sheriff that he is currently working to repay outstanding debts, including those related to drugs. The Sheriff made it clear that a custodial sentence would be likely if it were not for Swanson’s clean criminal record.
The court’s decision has ignited a debate in the Perth and Kinross community about the balance between public safety and providing support for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse. Many are calling for increased resources and support services within the region to address these complex issues.
The individual, identified as 24-year-old John Swanson from Edinburgh, was reportedly seen acting erratically before the incident and was observed carrying a knife. Security footage captured Swanson igniting the pub’s decorative hanging basket. He later confessed to a passerby that he had also set fire to a nearby wheelie bin in Fleshers Vennel, a narrow alleyway near the pub. Fire Crews Respond to City Centre Arson
Two fire engines responded to the scene, though the damage was thankfully limited to approximately £20 worth of property. During his interactions with the public, Swanson alarmingly revealed he was in possession of a wakizashi, a type of traditional Japanese samurai sword. He claimed to be carrying the weapon for self-defence.
Swanson’s actions have been met with disbelief and concern by local residents and business owners. The Half A Tanner, a popular spot amongst Pertshire locals, is known for its friendly atmosphere and community spirit. This incident has left many shaken and questioning the safety of the city centre, particularly during weekend evenings. Mental Health and Addiction Struggles Revealed in Court
Swanson appeared at Perth Sheriff Court, pleading guilty to possessing an offensive weapon, as well as wilfully setting fire to the hanging basket and bin. His defence lawyer revealed a complex picture of underlying mental health challenges and substance abuse issues. Swanson reportedly struggles with autism, ADHD, emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) and is currently awaiting assessment for a potential schizotypal personality disorder.
The court heard that Swanson’s destructive behaviour stemmed from a four-day period of drug and alcohol consumption, exacerbated by the recent reconciliation with his partner and emotional turmoil. He explained that he was ‘not in the right headspace’ at the time of the incidents and expressed remorse for his actions.
Despite the seriousness of the offences, particularly carrying a bladed weapon, Sheriff Clair McLachlan deferred Swanson’s sentencing for six months, pending assessment of his progress in addressing his mental health and addiction problems. She emphasized that this deferral served as a chance for Swanson to demonstrate his commitment to rehabilitation and to remain law-abiding.
Swanson informed the sheriff that he is currently working to repay outstanding debts, including those related to drugs. The Sheriff made it clear that a custodial sentence would be likely if it were not for Swanson’s clean criminal record.
The court’s decision has ignited a debate in the Perth and Kinross community about the balance between public safety and providing support for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse. Many are calling for increased resources and support services within the region to address these complex issues.