A MAN who was caught carrying a machete in public has been told by a sheriff that he could face up to five years in prison if he gets into any further trouble.

Jamie Craig, 26, appeared for sentence last Tuesday at Dumbarton Sheriff Court after carrying the weapon on December 16, 2017 in Garscadden View, Clydebank.

Craig, of Achamore Road, Drumchapel, previously pleaded guilty to the charge in April when the sheriff called for full background reports and imposed a curfew as part of his bail conditions.

The hearing in April heard how Craig was “clearly seen on camera recovering a large machete from his trousers and handing it to the other man”.

He had been warned his chances of “staying at liberty” were “far from certain”.

But last week he was given a further chance to stay free.

Last week, Craig’s lawyer told the court: “He is a young man who resides with his mother.

“He is hopeful of gaining employment from a family member.

“He has no other matters outstanding.

“He has been on a curfew and has remained at home each day from 7pm to 7am.

“That said, he realises he faces a very serious matter. This is a very unusual case.

“He was only in possession of the item for a very brief time.”

Sheriff William Gallacher told Craig: “I will give you the opportunity of going on a community payback order (CPO), if you fail to comply, parliament says you can face up to five years in jail.

“Carrying any weapons in public, whether it be a knife or a machete will be dealt with severely by the courts.

“This was a very serious charge and a dangerous implement.”

As well as being sentenced to 18 months of supervision, Craig was told to carry out 225 hours of unpaid work. A review was set for September 3.

Sheriff Gallacher added: “This was a very close call for you.”