URGENT UPDATE: Significant judicial decisions emerged from the Inverness Sheriff Court this week, as a driver involved in a fatal crash and a rapist targeting vulnerable children were both sentenced. These cases underscore critical issues of road safety and the protection of minors in care.
In a shocking incident, Fraser Syme, 24, has been sentenced to perform unpaid work after he struck and killed 90-year-old Robert Duncan on the A9 near Newtonmore on March 20, 2022. The court revealed that Duncan was hit “almost instantaneously,” prompting a public outcry for stricter road safety measures.
Meanwhile, Alexander Boyd, a caregiver, was found guilty of sexually assaulting two teenage girls at a children’s home in Argyll and Bute. Boyd, who was supposed to protect the vulnerable victims, now faces a lengthy prison term. This case raises serious concerns about the safety of children in care facilities.
In a separate case, William Mackenzie, 27, is set to be sentenced next month for physically assaulting a nine-year-old girl at the Aquadome. The attack on a child has sparked outrage within the community, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance regarding child safety.
In an unexpected twist, a 31-year-old man, Arron Donaghue, confronted police officers in the Old High Church cemetery while they were assisting a person in distress. His aggressive behavior toward the officers resulted in charges, highlighting tensions between the public and law enforcement.
In a disturbing trend, Frederik Dobinson, 49, a local veteran, was caught driving under the influence of drugs at nine times the legal limit on July 7, 2024. His arrest has ignited discussions about veterans’ mental health and addiction issues.
Additionally, Derek Pollock, 45, was sentenced to jail after admitting to possessing and intending to supply over £22,000 worth of cannabis. Police discovered the drugs and cash during a raid on his home, increasing concerns about drug trafficking in the area.
A business in Inverness has also come under scrutiny after an employee was trapped in a conveyor belt due to health and safety violations. The incident has drawn attention to workplace safety regulations and the responsibility of employers to protect their staff.
Finally, an 18-year-old man was charged for causing a disturbance outside the Xoko Café, a popular establishment known for its support of the LGBTQ+ community. The ongoing harassment faced by the café has prompted calls for stronger protections for local businesses.
These cases from the Inverness Sheriff Court reflect ongoing societal challenges and the urgent need for justice. As these stories develop, community members are urged to stay informed and engaged in discussions about public safety and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to monitor these critical developments.
