ANDREW LAWRENCE

ABERDEEN MAN IN PHOTOGRAPHY SCANDAL GETS THREE-YEAR SEX OFFENDERS REGISTER TERM

A man from Aberdeen named Andrew Lawrence, who was an oil worker, has committed serious offenses involving the taking of over 70,000 photos of women walking past his flat without their permission.

He admitted to a breach of peace by photographing the women for his sexual gratification.

Police discovered 71,600 images on his laptop and camera after a tip-off.

Lawrence was sentenced to be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of three years, and he was also given a community payback order and a three-year supervision order.

During his court appearance, it was noted that Lawrence developed an interest in photography in 2009 when he purchased a camera for holiday purposes.

He explained to police that he later started taking pictures of passers-by, which eventually grew into a large collection.

Lawrence insisted to authorities that he was not a threat to the women.

The sheriff emphasized that this was not a one-off incident.

His defense lawyer expressed regret for his actions, stating, "Mr Lawrence is 45 years old with an unblemished record.

He has let himself, friends, and family down badly and breached the trust of the community in which he lives.

He wishes to apologise and welcomes the opportunity to rehabilitate and become a useful member of society."