Knife thug locked up for attack on stranger

Ian Robinson knifed Darren Rooney as the victim walked in Leith Street, Edinburgh at around 3.30am on April 2 this year.

A wounded Mr Rooney eventually escaped onto the middle of the road where he managed to dial 999 on his mobile.

Robinson was arrested nearby – but had to be put in leg restraints as he struggled with police.

The 29 year-old today admitted at the High Court in Glasgow to assaulting Mr Rooney to the danger of his life.

Robinson had originally faced an allegation of attempted murder.

Judge Lord MacKay of Drumadoon said he may be considering imposing an extended sentence when Robinson returns to the dock next month.

The court heard how Mr Rooney and the accused were not known to each other.

Shanti Maguire, prosecuting, said Robinson blocked his victim's path in the capital's Leith Street before carrying out an "unprovoked assault" by initially punching and slapping him.

Robinson then took out a knife and stabbed Mr Rooney on the ear and shoulder.

Mr Rooney got away and called police. Robinson was later found at the nearby St James centre. He refused to lie on the ground when asked and had to be forcibly restrained.

Mr Rooney required hospital treatment for a deep wound to his shoulder.

The court heard today that Robinson is currently serving an eight-month jail term for an earlier incident where he acted in a threatening and abusive manner.

His lawyer David Allan said Robinson had claimed not to have gone out with a blade that night, but could not explain how he had one.

Mr Allan added: "He wants to apologise to his victim. This must have had an extreme impact on that individual."

Robinson is due to be sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh on August 25.