STEPHEN GREER CAUGHT IN PAISLEY SHOPPING CENTRE WITH DISTURBING NOTE

In March 2019, a disturbing incident unfolded within the bustling Paisley Piazza shopping centre involving Stephen Greer, a 44-year-old man who has since been placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register. Greer’s actions have drawn significant concern and legal repercussions after he targeted a teenage boy in a public setting, following a series of inappropriate behaviors that culminated in him slipping a note to the young victim.

According to court reports, Greer trailed the teenager through the crowded aisles of the shopping mall, which was teeming with families and shoppers. His actions were deliberate and calculated, as he repeatedly walked past the young man in an attempt to catch his attention. At a moment when the mall was particularly busy, Greer approached the teenager and discreetly handed him a note. The message on the note read: “Meet me at the taxi rank, I stay near – 15 minutes,” accompanied by a disturbing proposition that implied a sexual act.

In addition to passing the note, Greer hissed explicit words indicating his intentions, further unsettling the young victim. The teenager, who had just finished his work shift, was left feeling humiliated and distressed by the encounter. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, he confided in his girlfriend and family, which prompted him to contact the police and report the incident.

Following the incident, Greer was taken into custody and brought before Paisley Sheriff Court. During the hearing, Sheriff Seith Ireland was informed that Greer has a known issue with alcohol dependency and has refused to engage with social workers. The court heard that Greer did not seem to understand the gravity of his actions or why they were wrong, which raised concerns about his awareness and remorse.

Greer was subsequently sentenced to be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years. Additionally, he was fitted with a tagging device and ordered to adhere to a curfew, remaining indoors between 7pm and 7am for a period of four months. Sheriff Ireland emphasized that these measures serve as alternatives to custodial sentences, highlighting the importance of community-based punishment for such offenses. The sheriff also warned Greer about the dangers of alcohol abuse, noting that excessive drinking could further impair his health and potentially shorten his lifespan.

During the court proceedings, Greer expressed his inability to carry out community service, citing his ongoing issues. The sheriff made it clear that if Greer fails to comply with the court’s orders, he could face imprisonment. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such predatory behaviors are treated, especially when committed in public spaces like the Paisley Piazza shopping centre, which is a central hub for local residents and visitors alike.