JOHN MCDONALD INVERNESS SEX OFFENDER RESTRICTIONS AFTER ABUSE OF GIRLS UNDER 13

A man from Tain, identified as John McDonald, has been subjected to strict legal restrictions following serious allegations of assault and sexual misconduct involving young girls. The incident, which led to his court appearance in Inverness, resulted in a non-harassment order that will restrict his interactions with females under the age of 18 for a period of three years.

John McDonald, aged 46, had previously spent several months in remand as authorities investigated the allegations. During the hearing at Inverness Sheriff Court, Sheriff Eilidh Macdonald emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable minors from further harm. The court was informed that the victims, who were under 13 at the time of the offences, had been subjected to disturbing acts of abuse by McDonald, including being forced to watch pornography and subjected to physical assault.

The court heard that the offences took place over a span of years, from 2013 to 2021, at various properties located within Inverness-shire and Ross-shire. Evidence presented indicated that McDonald had shown the girls explicit material on television and made inappropriate sexual comments in their presence. One of the victims was physically assaulted with a pizza, which was used as a weapon to strike her on the face and body. The assault escalated to the point where McDonald held the pizza over her face, restricting her breathing, in a disturbing display of violence.

Clare Russell, representing McDonald, explained to the court that her client had undergone a psychological assessment. She stated, “A psychological report has been done on my client and he has mental health difficulties resulting in him having a complete misunderstanding of what is appropriate and what is inappropriate.”

Sheriff Macdonald addressed McDonald directly, noting the gravity of his actions. She remarked, “These are girls who looked up to you and you behaved appallingly towards them. They have been deeply affected by your behaviour, and I could easily send you to jail. But I accept what your solicitor says—that you need some help. I am not sure you know that your behaviour was wrong and you need to get some direction.”

As part of the court’s sentence, McDonald was placed under a comprehensive set of restrictions. He is to be supervised by social services for three years, participate in a rehabilitation program specifically designed for sex offenders, and be registered on the Sex Offenders’ Register for the same duration. The conduct requirements include a strict prohibition on approaching or communicating with any child under 18 without prior approval from his supervising officers. Additionally, he must report any relationships or friendships with individuals who have children under 18 and consent to inspections of any internet-enabled devices he owns to ensure compliance with the court’s orders.