'Petrol bomb victim' spared prison after decapitation threats

Rosaleen Sutherland — who told two PCs she'd have her jailed son attack them with a blade — has been placed on an 18-month supervision order.

Sutherland, 50, hurled verbal abuse at two officers who had arrived at her home to check on her welfare.

She was remanded in custody last month, but a sheriff decided not to jail her after a pre-sentencing background report highlighted concerns for her mental health.

Defence lawyer Aidan Gallagher said: "Her house was allegedly a target with regard to a case that has called at the High Court.

"Structured supervision would be to her benefit."

Sutherland was intoxicated when she called for police assistance last month but almost immediately turned on officers after they arrived.

She shouted at the male and female PCs: "I'll have you two murdered, and your families.

"Lenny [her son] is getting out in two weeks and he'll petrol bomb your houses, and yous will be getting slashed."

Sutherland also stated that she was a psychic and would ensure that the officers' children would contract cancer.

She said to the male officer: "My Lenny will cut the head right off you."

Sutherland later assaulted the officers with handcuffs after slipping her right hand out of the shackles.

Lawyer Mr Gallagher said: "Whilst there is a record there are no convictions since 2014.

"The police on this occasion came to her house for a welfare check.

"Unfortunately, she was under the influence and, having welcomed the police in, her behaviour has very rapidly deteriorated."

Sheriff Joseph Hughes said: "I am satisfied, having read the [background] report that there is an alternative way of disposing of this case."

The sheriff placed Sutherland on an 18-month supervision programme and deferred sentence on the handcuff assault charges until next April for Sutherland to be of good behaviour.

The sheriff told her: "I don't want any nonsense, you understand."