Three young men have faced justice at Perth Sheriff Court, admitting their involvement in a significant physical assault that occurred in a Crieff fast-food establishment. The incident, which escalated from inside the premises onto the High Street, has brought attention to community safety and the responsibilities of young individuals within Perthshire.
Calum Ruff, aged 19, Daniel Paterson, also 19, and Jamie Clark, 18, all pleaded guilty to a charge of assault to injury. The court was presented with compelling CCTV evidence, which captured the trio’s aggressive actions, showing them repeatedly striking their victim with both fists and feet in the early hours of June 2, 2023.
The footage, deemed a “vicious gang attack” by Sheriff William Wood, highlighted the alarming nature of the assault. It revealed efforts by the takeaway staff to intervene and de-escalate the situation, underscoring the public and disruptive character of the confrontation. The court noted the aggressive posture taken by the youngest accused, Jamie Clark, who appeared particularly eager to engage in the assault, despite his age.
Sheriff Wood addressed the accused directly, acknowledging their youth at the time of the offence, stating that while they were “technically children,” they were “clearly old enough to throw a punch.” This observation underscored the gravity with which the court viewed their actions, emphasizing that age does not absolve individuals of accountability for violent behaviour. The sheriff expressed hope that this experience would serve as a crucial lesson for them regarding the serious consequences of such conduct.
In sentencing, Jamie Clark, from Alligan Road, and Daniel Paterson, residing on Milnab Street, were each handed a fine of £720. For Calum Ruff, also of Alligan Road, who is currently unemployed, the court opted for a different approach. He was placed on the ‘Right Track’ programme, a structured initiative aimed at young offenders, with a review scheduled for later this year to monitor his progress and engagement with the rehabilitation process.
Daniel Paterson faced an additional charge stemming from an earlier assault in King Street, Crieff, on January 13, 2023. The prosecution detailed how Paterson, then associated with a local group known for anti-social behaviour, pursued his victim after a verbal disagreement. He proceeded to punch and kick the individual even after they had fallen to the ground. His defence solicitor highlighted Paterson’s current employment and stated that he is at a “crossroads” in his life, expressing genuine “shame and embarrassment” over his past actions and confirming he is no longer involved with the aforementioned group. The solicitor argued that Paterson had learned significant lessons that are now guiding him in a positive direction.
For the King Street assault, Daniel Paterson was ordered to pay £500 in compensation to the victim. Additionally, a six-week Restriction of Liberty Order was imposed, requiring him to adhere to a curfew, remaining at his residence between 9:00 PM and 5:30 AM. This measure aims to restrict his movements and encourage a more disciplined routine, reflecting the court’s commitment to both punitive and rehabilitative outcomes.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the impact that public disorder and violence can have on a close-knit community like Crieff. It highlights the justice system’s role in addressing such behaviour, particularly among young people, and balancing the need for accountability with opportunities for personal growth and societal reintegration. The commitment to programs like ‘Right Track’ and the acknowledgement of personal transformation, as seen in Daniel Paterson’s case, offer a pathway forward for those who demonstrate a willingness to change. The courts continue to work towards maintaining peace and order in Perthshire’s towns and villages, ensuring that residents feel safe and that justice is served.
Calum Ruff, aged 19, Daniel Paterson, also 19, and Jamie Clark, 18, all pleaded guilty to a charge of assault to injury. The court was presented with compelling CCTV evidence, which captured the trio’s aggressive actions, showing them repeatedly striking their victim with both fists and feet in the early hours of June 2, 2023.
The footage, deemed a “vicious gang attack” by Sheriff William Wood, highlighted the alarming nature of the assault. It revealed efforts by the takeaway staff to intervene and de-escalate the situation, underscoring the public and disruptive character of the confrontation. The court noted the aggressive posture taken by the youngest accused, Jamie Clark, who appeared particularly eager to engage in the assault, despite his age.
Sheriff Wood addressed the accused directly, acknowledging their youth at the time of the offence, stating that while they were “technically children,” they were “clearly old enough to throw a punch.” This observation underscored the gravity with which the court viewed their actions, emphasizing that age does not absolve individuals of accountability for violent behaviour. The sheriff expressed hope that this experience would serve as a crucial lesson for them regarding the serious consequences of such conduct.
In sentencing, Jamie Clark, from Alligan Road, and Daniel Paterson, residing on Milnab Street, were each handed a fine of £720. For Calum Ruff, also of Alligan Road, who is currently unemployed, the court opted for a different approach. He was placed on the ‘Right Track’ programme, a structured initiative aimed at young offenders, with a review scheduled for later this year to monitor his progress and engagement with the rehabilitation process.
Daniel Paterson faced an additional charge stemming from an earlier assault in King Street, Crieff, on January 13, 2023. The prosecution detailed how Paterson, then associated with a local group known for anti-social behaviour, pursued his victim after a verbal disagreement. He proceeded to punch and kick the individual even after they had fallen to the ground. His defence solicitor highlighted Paterson’s current employment and stated that he is at a “crossroads” in his life, expressing genuine “shame and embarrassment” over his past actions and confirming he is no longer involved with the aforementioned group. The solicitor argued that Paterson had learned significant lessons that are now guiding him in a positive direction.
For the King Street assault, Daniel Paterson was ordered to pay £500 in compensation to the victim. Additionally, a six-week Restriction of Liberty Order was imposed, requiring him to adhere to a curfew, remaining at his residence between 9:00 PM and 5:30 AM. This measure aims to restrict his movements and encourage a more disciplined routine, reflecting the court’s commitment to both punitive and rehabilitative outcomes.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the impact that public disorder and violence can have on a close-knit community like Crieff. It highlights the justice system’s role in addressing such behaviour, particularly among young people, and balancing the need for accountability with opportunities for personal growth and societal reintegration. The commitment to programs like ‘Right Track’ and the acknowledgement of personal transformation, as seen in Daniel Paterson’s case, offer a pathway forward for those who demonstrate a willingness to change. The courts continue to work towards maintaining peace and order in Perthshire’s towns and villages, ensuring that residents feel safe and that justice is served.