Scots pensioner charged with assault after streets locked down amid police probe

A pensioner has appeared in court after an alleged disturbance saw streets in a Scots seaside town locked down at the weekend,

Eric Baker was detained by officers over alleged incidents in West Kilbride, Ayrshire, on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

The 72-year-old appeared in the dock at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court yesterday afternoon, Monday, January 12, 2026.

He faced two charges - one of assault and one of behaving in a threatening or abusive way.

The case against him was continued for prosecutors to investigate further and he was released on bail.

He made no plea to the charges against him and no future court dates have been set.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A 72-year-old man has been arrested and charged following disturbances in West Kilbride.

“Around 4.35pm on Saturday, January 10, 2026, we were called to a report of a man causing a disturbance at a property on Arthur Court. 

"The man was traced in nearby Halfway Street and arrested in connection.

“There were no reports of any injuries.

“The man is due to appear at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court on Monday, January 12, 2026, and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."

Halfway Street and Arthur Street were closed off during the incident, and officers were also spotted at the seaside town's community centre.

The Scottish Ambulance Service was also approached for comment.