ASA TULLOCH OF LERWICK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT

A 20-year-old man, Asa Tulloch of St Olaf Street, Lerwick, has been sentenced to two years of supervision after admitting to carrying out a sexual assault on a girl under the age of 12. Tulloch appeared in court earlier and admitted the offence, which led to his sentence being deferred to allow for the preparation of background reports.

The incident is said to have occurred at a play park and a multi-court between June 1, 2012, and August 31, 2013, when Tulloch was approximately 15 or 16 years old, and the victim was believed to be nine or ten. The charge details that Tulloch touched the girl’s genitals through her clothing, kissed her on the cheek, and placed her hand down his trousers.

During today’s hearing at Lerwick Sheriff Court, defense solicitor Tommy Allan referenced the background reports, noting that Tulloch suffers from Fragile X Syndrome, a condition that results in learning disabilities and cognitive impairments. Mr. Allan argued that Tulloch requires a level of support and suggested that a community payback order would be more appropriate.

Sheriff Philip Mann emphasized the seriousness of the charge, stating, "These are charges for which the court could impose a custodial sentence." However, he added, "In my view, it’s more important for society and for yourself that you have some guidance and support."

As a consequence, Tulloch was placed under the supervision of social workers for two years, registered as a sex offender for the same period, and was warned that custody remained a possibility if he failed to cooperate with social services.