A KILBIRNIE man has narrowly avoided jail after he was convicted of producing cannabis in his home last year.
Thomas Appleyard, 44, of Alexander Fleming Avenue, Kilbirnie appeared at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court after a Social Work Report was compiled.
The court heard from Gordon Ghee, defending on behalf of Ms Dawson, that it was a favourable report and although there was a medium risk of re-offending there was a low risk of harm to others.
Sheriff McDonald said that it was a positive report but did say it is a conviction for producing cannabis.
She said: “The small number of plants is keeping you out of jail.
Cannabis production and use in this area causes untold misery.” Appleyard was placed on a Community Payback Order because of the fact that he was low risk but ordered to carry out 290 hours of unpaid work for the benefit of the community, in a period of six months, as a direct alternative to custody.
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