JOHN MCLAUGHLAN SENTENCED IN ABERDEEN FOR VIOLENT ASSAULT DESPITE ACQUITTAL ON MURDER ATTEMPT

A man with a history of violent behavior and domestic abuse, John McLaughlan, has been sentenced to prison following a serious assault on his former partner in Aberdeen. Although he was previously acquitted of attempting to murder her, the court found him guilty of a separate assault that involved alcohol and drug intoxication, leading to a three-year jail term at the High Court in Livingston.

On September 6, 2019, in Aberdeen, McLaughlan engaged in a violent episode at Hallfield Road that resulted in him physically attacking his ex-partner. The jury convicted him of assault to injury and danger of life after evidence demonstrated that he had grabbed her by the hair, dragged her to the ground, and struck her with a can. The court also heard that he restrained her by seizing her neck, which posed a significant threat to her life. Despite his denial of the attack, the evidence presented in court proved that he had straddled her and compressed her throat, actions that could have had fatal consequences.

Throughout the proceedings, McLaughlan’s defense team argued that his substance abuse issues had a substantial impact on his behavior and relationships. They highlighted his history of drug addiction and noted that his violent record was limited, with only one conviction dating back to 2001. Nevertheless, the judge pointed out McLaughlan’s extensive history of violence and disorder, including previous assaults on police officers, which contributed to the decision to impose a custodial sentence. The court ordered the sentence to be served retroactively from his remand date of December 13.

In addition to the three-year imprisonment, the court also issued a 12-month supervised release order aimed at safeguarding the public. The judge acknowledged McLaughlan’s willingness to participate in rehabilitation programs and his efforts to distance himself from drug-using acquaintances. Furthermore, he expressed a desire to support his mother, who is battling cancer. The sentencing judge emphasized that McLaughlan’s prior convictions, combined with his recent conduct, including the recent assault, made a non-custodial sentence inappropriate. The court’s decision reflects a recognition of both his past behavior and the need for ongoing intervention to prevent further violence.