Three teenage boys have admitted their role in a series of violent attacks on other youngsters in Airdrie and Coatbridge, with weapons used in two of the assaults. Sheriff Joseph Hughes remarked it was a 'blessing' that nobody was seriously injured.
Attacks at Train Station and Retail Park
The first assault occurred at Airdrie train station on June 20, 2024. All three teens, along with unnamed accomplices, punched and kicked a teenage boy repeatedly on the head and body.
The following day, one of the 14-year-olds, again acting with others, attacked a teenage boy at Locks Street Retail Park in Coatbridge. The victim was punched, kicked, had his jacket pulled over his head, and was hit on the head and body with a golf club.
Second Victim Targeted with Baseball Bat
During the same incident, the other 14-year-old and the 16-year-old, together with others, attacked a second teenage boy. They chased him and attempted to hit him with a hammer. He was then struck repeatedly on the body with a baseball bat. The boy fell and received further blows from the bat, as well as punches and kicks to his head and body. An allegation that he was shoved into the path of an oncoming vehicle was deleted.
Sheriff's Remarks and Sentencing
Appearing at Airdrie Sheriff Court, the trio—two aged 14 and one 16—cannot be named for legal reasons. They admitted their guilt. Sheriff Joseph Hughes stated: 'Regarding all three charges, it's a blessing that the injuries sustained were not more significant.'
Sentence was deferred for background reports. The sheriff told the trio: 'I'm aware that two of you were 14 and one was 16 at the time. The young persons' sentencing guidelines really kick in for each of you.'
