Man, 32, jailed for nine months after assaulting police in Glasgow city centre

A 32-year-old man has been jailed for nine months after assaulting a police officer in Glasgow city centre.

Daniel Burknap pled guilty to assaulting a police officer and breach of the peace offences following an incident on Buchanan Street.

Burknap targeted the officer from Police Scotland’s Retail Crime Taskforce within a shop on Buchanan Street as the officer was carrying out enquiries into a number of shoplifting incidents on Tuesday, 4 August.

The 32-year-old threw objects at the officer before threatening him with a knife. He then fled the scene.

But Burknap returned to the city centre the following day—where he was traced and arrested.

Burknap admitted the charges at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Monday, 31 August and was sentenced to nine months in prison.

Chief Inspector Stephen McManus said: “Violence and abusive behaviour is not part of the job for our officers – these are criminal offences and will not be tolerated.

“I would like to take this opportunity to commend the professionalism and bravery of the officer involved.

“We will continue to have dedicated patrols within Glasgow City Centre to deter and detect criminality and would encourage anyone with information or concerns to approach our officers or call 101.”

The Retail Crime Taskforce was established in October 2025 and is charged with investigating the most significant incidents of retail crime, including those involving violence or repeat offenders.

Earlier this week, seven people were arrested following 12 hours of “proactive action” in Glasgow city centre.

Speaking after those arrests, Chief Inspector McManus said: “These arrests send a clear message that violence, disorder and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Glasgow City Centre.

“This criminality can cause real harm and unease for local residents, businesses and those visiting our city and we remain committed to providing a visible police presence.”