ANDREW MCKINLAY FROM GALASHIELS SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE IN DUMFRIES AND TWEEDBANK

Andrew Mckinlay, also known as Makka, born on April 25, 1988, and hailing from Galashiels, has been sentenced to three years in prison after being found guilty of a series of severe domestic abuse offences committed against a former partner.

The conviction was secured following a trial at Dumfries Sheriff Court, where the 34-year-old man faced multiple charges related to a sustained campaign of violence and intimidation. Mckinlay had denied the allegations, which spanned from late May to early June 2021, but the court found sufficient evidence to convict him.

The incidents in question occurred between May 31 and June 6, 2021, primarily at Holly Crescent in Dumfries, as well as other locations within Dumfries and Galloway, including Tweedbank. During this period, Mckinlay was accused of shouting and swearing at his former partner, physically assaulting her by pushing her onto a sofa, and repeatedly attempting to contact her through calls and text messages, despite her clear attempts to distance herself.

Further allegations detailed that Mckinlay had forcibly locked her inside her house on Holly Crescent on May 31 and June 1, taking the keys with him to prevent her from leaving. He was also accused of smashing her mobile phone and other electronic devices, hiding her phones and gadgets to prevent her from communicating, and arming himself with a knife while threatening her repeatedly. Witnesses reported that he also kicked cushions and engaged in aggressive behavior during these episodes.

One of the most serious accusations involved an assault on June 1, when Mckinlay allegedly kicked the woman, seized her by the neck, and placed her in a headlock. He is said to have compressed her neck, restricting her breathing, and lifted her off the ground, swinging her around in a manner that caused her to lose consciousness. This violent act resulted in her falling to the floor, sustaining injuries and putting her life at significant risk.

On June 3, Mckinlay, who resides on Torwoodlee Road in Galashiels, reportedly attended an address in Tweedbank uninvited. He repeatedly demanded entry, banged on doors and windows, and uttered threats, causing distress and fear to the occupants of the house.

Following the trial, the sheriff emphasized the gravity of the offences, stating that given the seriousness of the violence and threats, there was no alternative but to impose a custodial sentence. Mckinlay’s actions have left a lasting impact on his victim, and the court’s decision reflects the severity with which such domestic abuse cases are now being treated in the judicial system.