Dreamt up phone theft

Aug 19 2008 by Les Stewart, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

A 21-YEAR-OLD told police he had been robbed but after three days of investigations – and a suspect being detained – he admitted he had lied.

Thomas Townsley was detained for the alleged robbery but was later released after questioning.

Perth Sheriff Court heard that David Sheehan, of Mill Street, Stanley, dreamed up the story because he was too scared to tell his mum he had sold his mobile.

The incident led to Sheehan appearing in the dock to admit a charge of wasting police time.

Depute fiscal Lucy Keane said that Sheehan had reported the ‘robbery’ at the Barrack Street HQ on March 10, giving a description.

“Police ultimately spoke to Mr Townsley, who was detained, but it became apparent there was no foundation for the allegations and he was released.

“On March 13, Sheehan was asked to go into the station for interview and it became clear he had made up the story,” added the depute fiscal.

Solicitor Paul Ralph said: “The offence seems to have come about as he didn’t want to go home and confess he had sold the mobile phone.

“He was reluctant to admit the predicament he had got himself into.”

Sheriff Michael Fletcher deferred sentence until August 27 and called for a Restriction of Liberty Order report.

“This was a very silly thing to do,” he told the accused. “You caused great difficulty for Mr Townsley who ended up being detained as a result. You have put your liberty at very serious risk indeed.”