Galashiels man threatened to burn former partner's home down after being asked to leave
A tyre-fitter who threatened to burn down his former partner’s home in Galashiels, after being asked to leave, and then set fire to the pavement outside, has been ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work, as a direct alternative to prison, and pay her £1,000 in compensation.
Ryan Headspeath also admitted pushing the woman and repeatedly striking the roof of a car, which was left with a smashed windscreen and smelling of petrol.
Selkirk Sheriff Court heard the 33-year-old, who lives in the town's Duke Street, had been invited back to the property at the Pirns to continue drinking, with a number of others, after bumping into his ex at Reivers Sports Bar on September 7th last year.
And, initially, the group seemed in good spirits.
Rhuairidh Allison, prosecuting, said that changed when Headspeath began making derogatory comments about their past relationship and was asked to leave.
He returned to the window and demanded his wallet, keys and phone, the court was told, adding: "You've got 20 f***ing seconds or I'll burn your house down."
READ MORE: Mechanic admits dangerous driving following police chase through Galashiels
Headspeath's solicitor, Ross Dow, said his client was suitably ashamed and genuinely regretful for his behaviour, and had largely avoided alcohol since.
He said the couple had been in a relationship for four years and remained good friends at the time.
Headspeath pled guilty to charges of assault, threatening or abusive behaviour and wilfully or recklessly damaging property belonging to another.
In addition to the compensation and unpaid work, he's also been made subject to a Non-Harassment Order, which means he's not allowed to approach or contact the woman, or enter King Street in Galashiels, for five years.
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/