MARK STRATHDEE FROM KEITH FACES JAIL AFTER DOMESTIC ABUSE IN MORAY AND ABERDEEN

Mark Strathdee, a resident of Keith, has been brought before Elgin Sheriff Court to face serious allegations of domestic abuse involving two separate victims. The court proceedings took place on a Monday, where Strathdee, aged 24, pleaded guilty to two charges of domestic violence that spanned from July 2022 to October 2023.

According to the charges, the first victim suffered physical assault, including being struck on the head and body, which caused her injury. During this period, Strathdee repeatedly demanded to know her whereabouts, exhibiting controlling and aggressive behavior. He also directed offensive remarks towards her and persistently contacted her through calls and messages, creating a pattern of harassment and intimidation. These incidents occurred across different locations, notably in Moray and London, highlighting the extent of his movements and the seriousness of his actions.

The second victim was targeted at her residence in Elgin, with incidents extending to other parts of Moray and Aberdeen between May and October of the previous year. During this time, Strathdee was reported to have shouted and sworn at her, further escalating the situation. He made repeated attempts to contact her, often turning up uninvited at her home, which added to her distress. The charges also include damaging her property and physically biting her, acts that underscore the violent nature of his conduct.

Following his guilty plea, Strathdee is scheduled to return to court next month to hear the final decision regarding his sentencing. His legal representative, Matthew O’Neill, requested that background reports be prepared before sentencing, citing Strathdee’s recent diagnosis of ADHD as a factor that might influence his behavior and potential rehabilitation. The court, presided over by Sheriff David Harvie, acknowledged the seriousness of the case and warned Strathdee that all sentencing options remain on the table.

Sheriff Harvie emphasized the importance of cooperation with the court’s investigations, stating, “These are serious matters. You have no previous convictions before the court. Given the nature of these, I can’t emphasise clearly enough how much it is in your interest to cooperate with the preparation of this report. At this stage, I want to be clear – all the options will be open.”

Additionally, a report assessing Strathdee’s suitability for a restriction of liberty order is to be prepared, which could restrict his movements during certain hours. The court also agreed to continue discussions regarding non-harassment orders that would prevent him from contacting either of his victims, with a further hearing scheduled for April to address these protective measures.