Teenager admits breaking innocent man's leg

A teenage thug broke an innocent man's leg because he wrongly thought he had touched a teenage girl.

The 16-year-old pleaded guilty at Glasgow Sheriff Court to assaulting Arthur Fanning, 48, in the city's Maryhill.

The court heard the boy was out with friends, who began speaking to Mr Fanning.

Prosecutor Marie McCue said: "The accused approached him and said 'what are you doing touching that wee lassie's a***?'”

The young thug chased Mr Fanning down the road.

Miss McCue added: "He punched and kicked his legs which made him fall to the ground.

"He then punched and kicked his head and legs."

Mr Fanning was unable to protect himself from the blows.

The youth's friends intervened and a woman tended to the victim's aid.

Mr Fanning was cut and there was blood on his face.

A 999 call was made before the boy was held by police.

Scans showed Mr Fanning had a broken leg which required him to wear a protective boot.

The teenager's lawyer Peter Malone said: "He became involved as he was told something. He did not see anything and doesn't know if it took place or not."

Sheriff Alan Mackenzie told the youth: "You will understand how serious this is and all sentencing options are open."

Sheriff Mackenzie deferred sentencing for reports until next month.