CRAIG MACLEAN STALKED WOMEN IN STEVENSTON AND LARGS FOR OVER A DECADE

In a case that highlights a prolonged pattern of harassment, Craig Maclean, a 36-year-old man from Stevenston, has admitted to stalking multiple women over a span of ten years. The allegations, which date back to 2007, were brought before Kilmarnock Sheriff Court, where Maclean pleaded guilty to four separate charges involving three different women.

The court heard that between 2007 and 2010, Maclean engaged in a series of intrusive and unwelcome behaviors in Largs. These included wolf-whistling at women, making remarks about their appearance, and repeatedly staring at them. Additionally, he was found to have targeted their places of work, where he would stare at them and secretly film or photograph them without their consent. Such actions created a climate of fear and discomfort for the victims, who had no way of knowing when or where they might be subjected to his invasive behavior.

The pattern of harassment continued from 2010 to 2017, during which Maclean's conduct escalated. He was found to have stood behind one woman, staring at her, and even breathing on her, actions that are both intimidating and invasive. He also continued to follow her, stare at her while she was at her place of work, and again, film or photograph her without permission. These repeated invasions of privacy underscored a disturbing persistence in his behavior.

Further charges revealed that in 2012, Maclean repeatedly called a woman’s name, persistently followed her, and even attended her home uninvited. These actions demonstrated a clear pattern of unwanted attention and intrusion into the victims’ personal lives. The court also heard that between March 2015 and March 2016, Maclean engaged in sending sexual written communications to another woman. These messages were sent without her consent and appeared to be intended either to obtain sexual gratification or to humiliate, distress, or alarm her.

Currently residing on New Street in Stevenston, Maclean’s actions have led to serious legal consequences. He was ordered to register as a sex offender and was granted bail pending his sentencing, which is scheduled for next month. The case underscores the importance of addressing persistent stalking and harassment, and the impact such behavior has on victims’ sense of safety and well-being.