ANDREW MCNAB SHOCKS SHETLAND WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT ON TEENAGER DURING NORTHLINK FERRY RIDE

In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the Shetland community, a 17-year-old boy was subjected to a sexual assault by a significantly older man during a ferry crossing from Shetland to Aberdeen last year. The perpetrator, identified as Andrew McNab, aged 62, pleaded guilty to the charges related to the assault, which took place on the NorthLink ferry on August 2, 2023.

According to court proceedings held at Lerwick Sheriff Court, the young victim had initially sought refuge at the ferry’s bar after feeling uneasy due to the presence of several men who had made him uncomfortable. It was during this time that he confided in McNab, who was also on the vessel. McNab, from Mid Yell, then offered to stay with the boy to provide him with some comfort and reassurance. As part of this interaction, McNab handed the teenager some vodka, which contributed to the subsequent events.

As the night progressed, the boy began to feel unwell and attempted to rest in his sleeping bag. However, McNab, instead of respecting the boy’s need for space, lay down beside him and wrapped his arms around him, then proceeded to stroke his back. The court heard that this behavior made the young victim feel increasingly uncomfortable. Frightened and overwhelmed, the boy left the sleeping area and went out to the ferry’s smoking zone to gather his thoughts.

Upon returning, he informed McNab that he intended to move to a different part of the ferry to escape the situation. Despite this, McNab followed him and asked if he could lie on the boy’s legs. The court was told that the teenager wanted to push McNab away, but he was in a state of fear, feeling frozen and unable to act. McNab then pinned the boy’s legs down with his weight and began stroking his thighs, actions that left the young victim visibly shaken with fear.

Realizing the severity of the situation, the boy sent a message to a family member, who then contacted the police. When McNab eventually fell asleep, the boy seized the opportunity to alert NorthLink staff, who promptly moved him away from the accused. McNab was arrested by police as he disembarked from the ferry early that morning.

During the court hearing, Sheriff Ian Cruickshank decided to defer sentencing McNab to allow for the preparation of criminal justice social work reports. The offender is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on May 8th. The case has raised serious concerns about safety and conduct aboard vessels traveling through Shetland and highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.