BARRY MCGUIRE OF COWDENBEATH SENTENCED FOR OFFENSIVE MESSAGES IN KELTY AND BEYOND

A resident of Cowdenbeath, Barry McGuire, has been formally warned by the court after being found guilty of sending offensive and abusive messages to his former partner. The incident took place over a period spanning from late February to early March, with the messages being sent from various locations including Blair Street in Kelty and other unspecified areas.

Barry McGuire, aged 35 and residing on Station Road in Cowdenbeath, appeared before Dunfermline Sheriff Court to face sentencing for his actions. He had previously admitted to the court that during the period between February 24 and March 9, he repeatedly sent unwanted messages to his former partner. These messages were not only unwanted but also contained offensive, derogatory, and abusive language.

According to the prosecution, represented by Depute Fiscal Catherine Stevenson, McGuire’s abusive conduct included calling his former partner a “wee slut” and a “whore,” language that was deemed highly inappropriate and damaging.

During the hearing, McGuire’s defence solicitor, Chris Sneddon, explained that the relationship between McGuire and his former partner was long-standing, lasting from 2021 until 2024. He suggested that break-ups can often be difficult and emotionally charged, implying that this context might have contributed to the incident. Sneddon also emphasized that McGuire’s actions were not entirely one-sided, hinting at a complex relationship dynamic.

However, Sheriff Krista Johnston was clear in her stance, expressing her disapproval of McGuire’s behaviour. She dismissed any victim-blaming and emphasized that such conduct was “entirely unacceptable.” The sheriff warned McGuire that if he continued to engage in similar behaviour, he risked imprisonment.

As part of her sentencing, Sheriff Johnston imposed a community payback order requiring McGuire to complete 125 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, she issued a two-year non-harassment order, prohibiting him from contacting or approaching his former partner during that period. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offences are treated and highlights the importance of protecting victims from ongoing abuse.