GEORGE ELDER FROM BRODIE INVOLVED IN SEXUAL ASSAULT AT INVERNESS ICE CENTRE

A prominent farmer from Brodie, 63-year-old George Elder, found himself at the center of a serious incident that took place at the Inverness Ice Centre last February. The incident involved Elder allegedly groping a player during a curling match, an accusation that led to a court trial and subsequent conviction. Despite maintaining his innocence and denying the sexual assault charge, Elder was found guilty after a thorough trial held at Inverness Sheriff Court.

During the proceedings, the court was informed that Elder continued to assert that he was not guilty of the allegations. However, he did accept responsibility for the incident, which the court described as both unpleasant and upsetting for the victim. The court heard that the complainant, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, testified that Elder approached her team and made a comment intended to distract her from her shot. She further accused Elder of grabbing her breast without warning, an act she described as inappropriate behavior. She recounted that her husband was about to take the final shot when the incident occurred, and she observed others witnessing Elder’s actions.

Following the confrontation, Elder reportedly apologized to the complainant at the gallery, indicating some acknowledgment of the incident. The court noted that Elder expressed regret for what happened, which was considered a sign of remorse. A background report presented during the trial suggested that Elder was unlikely to re-offend, influencing the court’s decision.

Yesterday, Sheriff Chris Dickson imposed a sentence that included placing Elder on the sex offender’s register for a period of six months. Additionally, Elder was ordered to be under social work supervision for the same duration. The sheriff emphasized that Elder’s expression of regret was a positive factor in the case. As part of his sentence, Elder received a community payback order, and his case will be reviewed again on May 6 to assess his progress and compliance.

Overall, the court’s decision balanced the seriousness of the allegations with Elder’s apparent remorse and the potential for rehabilitation, while also ensuring appropriate supervision and monitoring during the probation period.