Racist warned to behave

May 7 2010 by Andy Newport, Paisley Daily Express

A RACIST thug who launched a sickening and unprovoked verbal assault on an innocent shop worker has been warned to behave himself in future – or face the consequences.

Eric Haggerty walked into the Rajas fast-food takeaway in Paisley’s High Street and started screaming racially-charged insults at Imran Maunhh.

When 23-year-old Haggerty appeared in the dock at Paisley Sheriff Court, he pleaded guilty to pursuing a racially aggravated course of conduct which amounted to harassment after shouting at Mr Maunhh on Friday, April 30.

After appearing from custody, Haggerty was granted bail as Sheriff George Kavanagh called for social enquiry, community service and psychiatric reports.

However, he was warned that this would be the last time he would be afforded such lenience. Sheriff Kavanagh told Haggerty that, if he stepped out of line again, he would not get bail.

Haggerty launched his attack after walking into Mr Maunhh’s shop at around 2.30pm.

The court was told by depute fiscal Ian Logan that the accused staggered into the takeaway business and started hurling racist abuse at his victim.

Haggerty, of Dundonald Road, Paisley, was asked to leave and, as he walked away from the shop, passing police officers were flagged down by concerned witnesses.

They then arrested the accused.

Kirsty McGeehan, defence agent for unemployed Haggerty, said her client suffered from a mental health disorder that was made worse by drink and drugs.

She added: “He has no recollection of the incident.”

Sheriff Kavanagh ordered the accused to return to court on Tuesday, May 25, to learn his fate.