ANTHONY MCDONALD'S SEXUAL HARASSMENT SCANDAL IN PAISLEY HOSPITALS AND CARE HOMES

Anthony McDonald, a 60-year-old resident of Paisley, has admitted to engaging in serious acts of sexual harassment against colleagues during his time working at various local institutions. The court proceedings revealed that McDonald’s inappropriate conduct included a series of sexually charged messages sent to female staff members at Dykebar Hospital, which caused significant distress among those targeted. These incidents were severe enough that some of the victims chose to resign from their positions to escape his unwanted advances.

In addition to his misconduct at Dykebar Hospital, McDonald also confessed to making a sexual remark to a staff member while employed at Hunterhill care home, also located in Paisley. The troubling pattern of behavior appears to have begun in June 2020, when a female employee started working at Hunterhill. Almost immediately, she was subjected to unwelcome sexual comments and requests to meet outside of work hours, which she firmly declined. The persistent harassment ultimately led her to resign, citing McDonald’s conduct as the primary reason for her departure.

The court heard that McDonald’s inappropriate behavior did not cease after this incident. In August and September of 2023, he continued to send sexual messages to another colleague at Dykebar Hospital, additionally requesting a kiss. The victim responded with brief replies but felt increasingly uncomfortable, leading her to cease working on the same ward to avoid further contact. She subsequently reported the matter to her line manager and contacted the police, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Anthony McDonald, who is a first-time offender with no prior criminal convictions, is currently suspended from his employment and is listed on the sex offenders’ register. His sentencing has been postponed to allow for a social work report and an assessment of potential restrictions on his liberty. A new court date has been scheduled for next month to determine the final outcome of his case, which underscores the gravity of his actions and the ongoing legal process.