GERALD ROSS FROM KEMNAY SPARED JAIL AFTER ALARMING BEACH INCIDENT IN STONEHAVEN

In December 2011, a disturbing incident involving Gerald Ross, a 45-year-old man from Kemnay, unfolded at Stonehaven harbour, located in the north-east of Scotland. Ross was involved in behavior that caused significant concern among local residents and authorities, leading to a court case that drew considerable attention.

On June 27 of the previous year, Ross was observed by two vigilant parents who had taken their children to enjoy a day at the beach. These parents noticed Ross staring intently at children dressed in swimsuits, with their expressions described as 'lustful' by the fiscal depute Anne Macdonald. The parents, alarmed by his behavior, promptly contacted the police to report their suspicions.

Following the report, law enforcement officers responded swiftly and conducted a search of Ross's residence, which was identified in court documents as being located on Heron Way in Kemnay. During the investigation, police uncovered evidence that further implicated Ross in inappropriate activities. It was revealed that he had downloaded a total of 51 indecent images of children from the internet over a period spanning from March 2002 to May 2003. The images primarily depicted girls aged between eight and fifteen, a fact that added to the severity of the case.

Additionally, Ross admitted to possessing 19 photographs on June 27 last year, which he had printed from his computer. These images, according to court proceedings, were for his personal use. Ross's solicitor, Gail Goodfellow, explained that her client believed he was not causing harm by viewing or possessing these images, although he acknowledged that the children depicted were being exploited and abused. She also disclosed that Ross had himself been a victim of abuse during his teenage years.

During the court hearing at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, Ross pleaded guilty to breaching the peace by behaving in a disorderly manner and causing alarm at the beach. He also admitted to the possession and downloading of indecent images of children. The court heard that Ross had expressed sexual excitement towards young girls aged eight to fifteen, which was a key factor in the case.

In sentencing, Sheriff Graham Buchanan acknowledged the seriousness of Ross's conduct. He stated,