A SHERIFF has ordered that a Drumchapel man caught with cocaine after driving dangerously and mounting a grass verge on the A82, undergoes a drug treatment assessment.

Gavin Stevenson, 39, who lives in Tallant Road, appeared from custody at Dumbarton Sheriff Court where he was due to be sentenced for the offences which took place on Hallowe'en last year.

Stevenson had admitted his guilt during an earlier court appearance to driving the vehicle dangerously on the westbound carriageway of the A82 near Milton by swerving across the carriageway, undertaking other vehicles causing drivers to take evasive action to avoid colliding, driving at excessive speed and mounting a grass verge. He also admitted driving while under the influence of drugs or drink and being in possession of a quantity of cocaine with intent to supply at the Esso petrol station in Milton.

Referring to a social work background report prepared for the court, Roddy Boag, Stevenson's defence solicitor, said: "There was the prospect of a rehabilitation place. There was an [earlier] assessment and it could take up from he left off if he wasn't in custody"

Deferring sentence for good behaviour and calling for a social work report and a drug treatment and testing order (DTTO) assessment to be carried out, Sheriff William Gallacher told Stevenson: "I'm not sure if I should be optimistic or not. You are aware that this isn't going to be the straight path with flowers outside the door of the house. I will consider it though but I'm not sure a DTTO will work if it didn't before."

The matter will call again on May 9.