ALASTAIR DUFF'S SHOCKING RACIST AND SEXUAL REMARKS IN EDINBURGH ONLINE MEETING

Alastair Duff, aged 69, who previously served as the director of the Judicial Institute of Scotland, has come under serious scrutiny after admitting to making racist and sexually inappropriate comments during a virtual meeting held on the WebEx platform. The incident took place in October 2021 while Duff was at his residence in Edinburgh, during a training session intended for justices of the peace.

During this online session, some participants overheard Duff uttering remarks that were both racially charged and sexually explicit. The situation escalated when Duff, unaware that his microphone was still active, used an expletive, which was captured on the recording. This breach of conduct prompted immediate concern among the attendees and eventually led to formal police involvement.

Following reports from two participants, law enforcement launched an investigation that uncovered further disturbing details. It was revealed that Duff had been communicating with a man residing in Leven, who has since passed away. A subsequent search of the deceased man’s computer uncovered graphic pornographic material, including images depicting a man and woman dressed in school uniforms engaged in sexual acts.

In a court hearing held at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Duff pleaded guilty to the charges. He was subsequently fined £1,275 for his misconduct. His legal representative, John Scullion KC, commented on the case, stating that Duff’s professional career had “ended in ignominy” and that his reputation, which had been built over many years, was destroyed “in seconds.” Scullion emphasized the personal toll this incident had taken on Duff.

During the proceedings, Sheriff Douglas Keir acknowledged Duff’s long and distinguished career, describing the case as “troubling and anxious.” However, the sheriff also noted that there was no significant sexual element to the offence. Duff admitted to behaving in a disorderly manner by making remarks that were both racist and sexually explicit, which caused other participants to feel fear or alarm. He also acknowledged that his actions constituted a breach of the peace, further underscoring the seriousness of the misconduct.