TAIN SOCIAL WORKER ADMITS SEXUAL ASSAULT
A social worker based in Tain has admitted to sexually assaulting a woman from Easter Ross by fondling her breasts while visiting her home.In a rare legal ruling at Inverness Sheriff Court, Sheriff David Sutherland decided to defer both the conviction and sentencing of 59-year-old David MacRae until he hears a plea in mitigation next month.
MacRae’s attorney, John McColl, submitted a psychological report and requested a postponement to allow for the collection of full background information.
Prosecution representative Michelle Molley described how MacRae arrived at the woman's house around 9 pm on June 15, and she observed him fixating on her body, particularly her breasts.
When she challenged him about this, he responded that he was contemplating how her bra could support her breasts.
Ms Molley stated, “She was shocked that he made such a sexual comment.
He then touched her breasts over her top.” Suddenly, MacRae removed her top and bra despite her protests.
After she pulled away, he pulled her back and said, “All I wanted to do was touch you,” with his face near her breasts.
The woman was left in shock, and MacRae then left the house.
He later told his wife about what had happened, expressing remorse by saying, “I’ve made a terrible mistake.
I want to put it right,” and indicated an intention to “sort things out.” He returned later attempting to gain access to her home, but she refused.
Court records show that MacRae, living at Rosedale Cottage, Hartmount, Tain, admitted to committing a sexual assault by placing his hands on her breasts over her clothing, lifting her top, pulling down her bra, and grabbing her bare breasts.
He declined to comment during police interviews but accepted responsibility.
The court has now postponed the case until January 5 to allow for additional reports and mitigation to be prepared.
