POLICE in Greenock had to call for 'urgent assistance' after a man challenged them to a fight in a street in the town.

Connor Cameron hurled violent threats towards two officers during the incident in Grieve Road.

The 24-year-old admitted acting in an aggressive manner towards two constables, as well as shouting, swearing and uttering threats of violence towards them and repeatedly striking a marked police car.

Cameron also assaulted one of the officers by attempting to headbutt him and struggling violently with him.

He pleaded guilty to a further charge of being in possession of a quantity of cocaine.

The incident happened on September 25, 2022.

The court heard that the two police officers had been on patrol when they were flagged down by a member of the public who had concerns about the behaviour of a male nearby.

They obtained a description of the man and made their way along the street.

Greenock Sheriff Court, where Connor Cameron was sentenced. (Image: Newsquest) Fiscal depute Pamela Brady said: “They became aware of the accused running down the stairs of the property, running towards the marked police car.

“He appeared to be aggressive.

“He made his way towards the car and began striking the roof and window.”

Cameron, of Merlin Avenue, told the officers: “Get out the car and we will have a go.”

One police officer was unable to exit the vehicle, with the other getting out and approaching Cameron.

He continued to shout and swear before making his way towards the officer, saying: “Come on then. I will take the two of you.”

Cameron then ‘threw his head towards’ the constable, but was fended off with an open palm.

The two police officers later arrested Cameron, with a call being made for urgent assistance due to his continued aggressive behaviour.

He was later placed in a cell van and taken to Greenock police office.

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Cameron was searched at the station, where a small bag containing trace amounts of cocaine was discovered. 

Ms Brady added: “Due to his erratic and violent behaviour, he was not charged at the time.”

Defence solicitor Gerry Keenan told the court that the incident was ‘out of character’ for Cameron.

Mr Keenan said: “It was drink and drug induced bravado.

“He is thoroughly ashamed.

“He comes before the court without any convictions at all. He’s a young man who lives a law-abiding life.

“He knows his reaction is unacceptable. I think it’s a lesson that’s been well learned and it’s not going to recur.”

Sheriff Kevin Duffy told Cameron: “It’s pretty unusual for someone of 24 years old to appear before the court on offences such as these with no record.

“It’s that combination of alcohol and illicit substances. Look where it’s got you.”

Cameron was handed a community payback order which will require him to complete 180 hours of unpaid work within six months.