URGENT UPDATE: A driver responsible for the death of a pensioner on the A9 has been sentenced to community service, while a rapist of teenage girls in a children’s home awaits a lengthy prison term, according to the latest court proceedings at Inverness Sheriff Court.
Fraser Syme, aged 24, was sentenced to complete unpaid work after he struck and killed 90-year-old Robert Duncan on March 20, 2023. The incident occurred near the junction for Newtonmore and Ralia, marking a tragic moment for Duncan’s family and the community. The court’s decision is a reminder of the grave consequences of reckless driving.
In another critical case, Aleander Boyd was found guilty of sexually assaulting two teenage girls who were under his care at a children’s home in Argyll and Bute. This conviction has raised serious concerns about the safety of vulnerable children in such facilities and is expected to lead to a significant prison sentence.
In a separate incident, a confrontation occurred in a cemetery where Arron Donaghue, aged 31, intervened while police were questioning a person about his welfare. The court heard that Donaghue showed aggression towards the officers, highlighting tensions that can arise even in moments meant for public safety.
In a shocking turn of events, Frederik Dobinson, a 49-year-old armed forces veteran, was caught drug-driving with a blood concentration nine times the legal limit on July 7, 2024. Authorities are increasingly alarmed by the growing trend of impaired driving in the region.
In another case, Scott Mackay, a 36-year-old man from Nairn, has been arrested again for multiple offences after a series of thefts earlier this year. The sheriff has expressed concern over the cycle of drug and alcohol abuse leading to repeated offences.
Adding to the urgent safety concerns, an Inverness-based company has faced financial penalties after a worker was trapped in a conveyor belt for 30 minutes. The incident, which occurred at Brian MacGregor and Sons Ltd on January 28, 2020, raises alarms about workplace safety standards.
A disturbing incident unfolded outside popular coffee shop Xoko in Inverness, where an 18-year-old man was charged for causing a disturbance. The establishment has been targeted for its support of the LGBTQ+ community, making this incident particularly concerning for local supporters.
In a grave incident at the city’s Aquadome, William Mackenzie, aged 27, has been charged with assaulting a nine-year-old girl. He is scheduled for sentencing next month, with the community expressing outrage over such violence against children.
In yet another drug-related case, Derek Pollock, aged 45, faces jail time for being involved in the supply of cannabis valued at over £22,000. His arrest underscores ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
Finally, Steven MacLean, a 36-year-old man, has been charged after physically assaulting a neighbor following a disturbance. The court is addressing his long history of offenses as well as his recent struggles with mental health.
As these cases unfold, the Inverness community is left grappling with the implications of crime and safety. Stay tuned for more updates from the Inverness Sheriff Court as these important cases progress.
