Two men have been handed custodial sentences after pleading guilty to two assaults and a robbery in Edinburgh earlier this year.

James Smith, 23, and Mark Dolan, 18, appeared for sentencing before Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, November 23rd, in connection with different attacks on innocent members of the public.

During the early hous of July 16th, a 29-year-old man was assaulted by the pair on Princes Street near Waverley Station shortly before another man, aged 21, was robbed nearby of his mobile phone by Dolan.

A short time later both Dolan and Smith attacked a 21-year-old homeless man in Lothian Road who was pushed into railings, causing a large cut to his face.

A subsequent investigation by detectives from the Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield CID led to the arrest of Smith and Dolan.

Dolan was sentenced to serve 32 months in prison for his role in these offences while Smith was sentenced to 14 months.

Detective Inspector Grant Johnston of Gayfield CID said: “Our team of officers, who are dedicated to investigating violent crime in the city centre, quickly identified Smith and Dolan as being responsible for these appalling attacks on innocent members of the public.

“Additional officers will be patrolling the city centre in the coming weeks as part of Operation Winter City and my team will also have additional resources over the festive period.

“If you want to report a crime please call police on 101 or alternatively an anonymous report can be made through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”