Posted on the 15th January 2026 in PHTM News
ROAD RAGE MAN WHO TRIED TO GOUGE OUT ABERDEEN CABBIE'S EYE AFTER 5 DAY BENDER IS JAILED
An Aberdeen man has been jailed for 30 months after a "shocking" road rage incident in which he attempted to gouge out a taxi driver's eye following a five-day drinking binge.
James Smith, 41, appeared at Aberdeen Sheriff Court for sentencing following the violent confrontation on Hutcheon Street on August 5 last year.
The court heard that the incident began when Smith, who was heavily under the influence, crashed into the back of a taxi stationary at a set of traffic lights.
The situation escalated rapidly when the taxi driver exited his vehicle to challenge Smith about his fitness to drive. Fiscal depute Callum Gordon told the court that when the cabbie attempted to call the police, Smith charged at him, knocking the phone from his hand.
"The accused then pushed him against the vehicle door and repeatedly punched him to the head," Mr. Gordon said. "He then put his arm around the taxi driver’s neck and at the same time, inserted a finger into his eye socket and applied pressure."
Following the assault, Smith returned to his vehicle and struck the taxi a second time before careered into several bollards and fleeing the scene.
Police later intercepted Smith’s significantly damaged car. Officers noted he was "unsteady on his feet and smelling of alcohol."
The aggression continued during his arrest as Smith lashed out, attempted to headbutt officers, and spat at one individual.
The court heard that even while being processed at the custody suite, Smith remained combative, adopting a "fighting stance" and launching into a volley of verbal abuse while charges were being read.
Defence solicitor David Sutherland stated that Smith had been on a "five-day bender" and had consumed alcohol to excess prior to the crash.
"A five-day bender culminated in this shocking incident," Mr. Sutherland said, adding that Smith was now in a "better place" after spending time on remand away from drugs and alcohol.
Sheriff Ian Wallace sentenced Smith to 30 months’ imprisonment. In addition to the jail term, Smith has been banned from driving for 60 monthsand is required to pass an extended driving test before regaining his licence.
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