JOHN MACLEOD FROM LEWIS ESCAPES JAIL AFTER DOWNLOADING OVER 600 INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN

In a case that has shocked the community of Lewis, John Macleod, a 44-year-old resident of Lower Bayble, was found to have downloaded a staggering total of 676 indecent images depicting young children. The incident came to light during a court hearing held at Stornoway Sheriff Court, where Macleod appeared to face the serious allegations against him.

Despite the gravity of the offense, Macleod was spared a custodial sentence. Instead, Sheriff David Sutherland ordered him to undertake 120 hours of unpaid community service within the next twelve months. Furthermore, Macleod was placed on the sex offenders’ register, a measure that will have implications for his future, and he will remain under supervision until January 2021.

The court was informed that the images were downloaded on a single occasion using a Samsung laptop, which has now been confiscated and forfeited. As part of the court’s conditions, Macleod is required to make his electronic devices, including his computer, smartphone, or any internet-enabled device, available for inspection by police at any time over the next two years. This is to monitor his online activity and ensure compliance with the court’s orders.

During the proceedings, Macleod’s legal representative, lawyer David Teale, explained that his client had downloaded the files but was unaware of their true nature at the time. He stated that Macleod discovered that the images did not match his expectations and immediately deleted them upon realization of their content. The court was told that Macleod expressed remorse for his actions and that the incident had resulted in him losing his employment.

The case was further detailed by Procurator Fiscal Karen Smith, who revealed that the laptop used by Macleod was seized last June. Forensic analysis of the device uncovered the deleted images, which depicted young females, some as young as eight years old, in various states of undress and in poses that focused on their private parts. The images included females fully or partially clothed but still posed in a manner deemed inappropriate and illegal.

In her statement, Ms. Smith emphasized the disturbing nature of the material, highlighting the serious concern for the safety and well-being of the children involved. The court’s decision reflects a balance between punishment and rehabilitation, with Macleod being given a chance to address his actions without immediate imprisonment, but under strict supervision and monitoring.