A WARRANT has been issued for the arrest of a Greenock man charged with an alleged firearms offence after he failed to attend a court hearing.
Thomas Brown is accused of having pepper spray - classed as a prohibited weapon - at his home on John Street on June 14 in 2021.
The Crown allegation claims the 48-year-old had in his possession 'a canister designed or adapted for the discharge of a noxious liquid, gas or thing, namely capsaicin'.
Capsaicin is a chemical irritant found in chilli peppers that causes a burning sensation in any tissue with which it comes into contact.
Brown was due to face the single indictment charge at a first diet hearing at Greenock Sheriff Court.
His solicitor, Derek Buchanan, offered no explanation for his absence, and Sheriff James Spy granted a warrant to apprehend him.
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