Man performed sex act in full view of customers at The Growler Ayr

Scott Nelson, 25, pleaded guilty to a charge of public indecency after admitting performing a sex act in view of patrons and staff who were in The Growler on Beresford Road on June 7 this year.

Nelson, of Cargill Avenue, Maybole, was told he will have to register with police while awaiting risk assessment reports from social workers after he alarmed customers who were inside the restaurant with his behaviour.

When he appeared at Ayr Sheriff Court on Wednesday, November 16, the procurator fiscal depute said: “At 8.15pm in the evening on June 7 this year, a number of witnesses were in the restaurant.

“Two witnesses were at a table sitting directly opposite. The accused was alone and appeared to be going through his phone.

“They then observed his right hand going down into his trousers.

“The witnesses became nervous and then alerted staff who observed the same act. The manager was informed and police were contacted.

“Police traced the accused who matched the description provided by witnesses.

“He was cautioned, charged and taken to Kilmarnock police office.”

After pleading guilty to the public indecency offence, Nelson’s defence solicitor, John Gallagher, told the court he expected sentencing would need to be adjourned for background social work reports.

Mr Gallagher said he would reserve further comment until those reports were provided.

Addressing Nelson, Sheriff Siobhan Connolly said: “In respect of this matter I’m going to defer sentence for criminal justice social work reports, a restriction of liberty order assessment and risk assessment.

“You will remain on bail and will also by subject to the notification requirement of the Sexual Offences Act requiring you to report to the police station.”

Nelson will return to Ayr Sheriff Court to learn his fate at a later date.

Any information on criminality across the South Ayrshire area can be reported to officers at Police Scotland on 101.

In an emergency situation, always dial 999.