Masked thug armed with knife threatened man after being told to pick up wine bottle

A masked thug armed with a knife threatened a man after being told to pick up a discarded wine bottle. Martin McKenzie, 23, from Coatbridge, and his drinking pals had been asked to move away from a block of flats where they had gathered. McKenzie appeared at Airdrie Sheriff Court this week for the incident.

McKenzie, of Viewfield Road, admitted threatening or abusive behaviour and carrying a knife in Ash Road, Cumbernauld, on May 13 last year while on bail. The prosecutor, Kevin Morrow, shared that a woman in her top-floor flat saw McKenzie and his group, who appeared intoxicated, outside. When a member of the group threw a Buckfast bottle to the ground, the woman challenged them to pick it up, leading to a confrontation.

As the woman asked McKenzie’s group to leave, he put on a balaclava and drew a knife, threatening the man who came outside with the woman. Despite brandishing the knife and making threats, McKenzie did not harm anyone and eventually left the scene. He was apprehended by the police in a wooded area shortly after the incident.

McKenzie had recently served a 16-month jail sentence for throwing bleach over a man at a house in Coatbridge. His defence agent, Simon Gilmour, mentioned that McKenzie is currently under a post-release supervision order and is involved in unpaid community work for another case. The sheriff deferred McKenzie’s sentence until January for background reports, emphasizing that custody is a serious consideration given the nature of the offence and McKenzie’s criminal record.

In conclusion, the incident involving Martin McKenzie serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of carrying weapons and resorting to violence. The prompt intervention of law enforcement prevented any physical harm, but the escalation of the situation highlights the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully. It is crucial for individuals to seek help and support to address underlying issues that may lead to such confrontations in the future.