Portlethen Dentist Fined and Ordered to Stay Away from Ex After Domestic Abuse Guilty Plea

A Portlethen dentist has been fined and ordered to stay away from his ex-girlfriend after confessing to domestic abuse. Ruaidhri McKinnon, 34, admitted to a series of abusive behaviors towards his former partner, including monitoring her online activities and physically assaulting her by slamming doors on her head and leg. During court proceedings, it was noted that the couple had been together for approximately eight months before ending their relationship.It was revealed that McKinnon's abusive conduct began a few months into their relationship. The abuse included calling her derogatory names such as 'slag' after she posted a picture on social media and attempting to control her by messaging her repeatedly. The court heard that McKinnon also bought a puppy for her, but his behavior worsened over time. He yelled at her for leaving a dog outside and slammed a door on her head when she was near it, causing her distress.The relationship eventually ended, but McKinnon persisted in harassing his ex-partner through messages mainly about their dog and her online activity. His behavior was described as spiraling, partly attributed to his struggle with mental health issues following a spinal operation and his efforts to seek counseling and attend sobriety meetings. Despite his attempts at reform, he was convicted of domestic abuse after admitting to multiple charges, including repeatedly contacting his ex, sending abusive messages, slamming doors on her, monitoring her online activities, and threatening to withhold access to their dog.Sheriff William Summers acknowledged McKinnon's guilty plea to a serious charge and noted that it caused distress to his victim. The court took into account his efforts to improve his behavior and background report, which showed he had taken steps to address his issues. As a result, McKinnon was fined £2,250 and placed under a non-harassment order for five years, preventing any contact with his former partner.