A WOMAN who threatened police and told them she would have them charged with rape and indecent assault has been told her behaviour is ‘totally unacceptable’. 

Joanne Wharton, of Bellsbank Crescent, Dalmellington stood trial last month on four charges and was found guilty of shouting, swearing and threatening officers at her home in October last year.

Wharton was convicted of obstructing police officers by holding onto a banister in a bid to avoid being handcuffed and also slipped one hand from the cuff.

The 41-year-old assaulted two officers by attempting to kick one and trying to headbutt the other. She appeared before Sheriff Dickson last week at Ayr Sheriff Court for sentencing.

Speaking on her behalf, defence solicitor Robert Logan, said: “She plainly accepts the decision of the court. Alcohol played a part in this.

“She is now in a position where a custodial sentence causes her concern. She does have good values and has done volunteering work in the community. 

“She could complete unpaid work and has done so in the past. As for the police officers she was a complete nuisance to them.”

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Dickson, said: “There really is no justification for your behaviour that night and why you don’t accept alcohol was the influence behind this.

“To make these threats that you would have police officers charged with rape and say they touched you up is totally unacceptable.

“You attempted to kick one officer and headbutt the other. You have already got a criminal record but I am persuaded by the report this should be your final chance.

“Keep away from the courts Ms Wharton. You managed to keep yourself out of trouble for 35 years of your life. You have got to stop yourself from drinking alcohol otherwise you will be back here.”

Wharton has been fined £500 and will pay £20 per fortnight. She will also complete a community payback order and will be under supervision for three years as well as 220 hours of unpaid work within 12 months.