ANTHONY MCELHONE FROM SHETLAND FACES SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES IN EDINBURGH

A 70-year-old man named Anthony McElhone is preparing to stand trial on serious allegations of historic sexual offenses involving two teenage girls in Shetland. The accusations span a period from March 1993 to December 1996, during which McElhone is alleged to have committed multiple acts of sexual violence against the two victims.

According to the indictment, McElhone is accused of raping one of the girls on two separate occasions. In addition to these allegations, he faces charges of indecent assault on the same individual at various times, including incidents that reportedly occurred during car journeys and ferry trips within Shetland. The charges detail inappropriate touching, grabbing, and the making of sexual remarks, which are said to have taken place over a series of encounters.

Furthermore, McElhone is also charged with indecent assault in relation to the second girl, with allegations that he engaged in inappropriate physical contact and made sexual comments towards her as well. The case highlights a pattern of alleged misconduct over several years, involving multiple locations across Shetland, which has now come to light after many years.

The case was brought before the High Court in Glasgow, where a brief hearing was held on Wednesday. During the proceedings, McElhone, who currently resides in North Yorkshire, entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. The court, presided over by Lord Colbeck, scheduled the trial to commence on December 3 in Edinburgh. Until then, McElhone remains on bail, awaiting the trial proceedings.

This case underscores the long-lasting impact of historical abuse allegations and the ongoing pursuit of justice for victims of sexual violence in Scotland. The legal process continues as McElhone prepares to face trial in the coming months.