Man jailed for robbing vulnerable man at knifepoint

A man who robbed a vulnerable man at knifepoint has been jailed for three and a half years.

Robert Laughland, 52, targeted David Morland in Glasgow's Battlefield area at around midnight on 19 April.

Glasgow Sheriff Court heard Morland was using a walking stick when he was approached by Laughland and another man.

Sheriff Michael Hanlon told Laughland: "This was an appalling crime committed on a vulnerable person."

He added: "You must have known he was vulnerable as he was walking with a stick. Your actions were cowardly.

Prosecutor Lauren Aitchison said Laughland put his arm across the victim's face and held a knife against his throat.

Laughland first swore at Morland as he demanded money then added: "I will cut your throat, I'm not even joking."

The victim then stumbled which caused the accused to increase his grip and threaten to "stab" him.

Laughland pulled Morland to the ground before he got to his feet and stole his victim's Sainsbury's shopping bag.

Morland was found lying injured on the ground by a witness.

He was taken to hospital and found to have suffered a broken hip which required surgery.

Aitchison added: "Due to this, he will suffer ongoing mobility issues."

Laughland was identified by CCTV and arrested, less than three weeks later, on 6 May.

When questioned by officers he said: "I don't remember what happened last night never mind then."

Laughland, who appeared from custody, pleaded guilty to assault and robbery to his injury and permanent impairment.

David McCaig, defending, told the court: "He is ashamed and disgusted with himself.

"He only found out the serious nature of what he did when disclosure was carried through."

Sheriff Hanlon told Laughland he had a number of convictions for assault and possession of weapons.

He added: "In all the circumstances I do not see an alternative to custody."