GRAHAM WHITSON FROM ABERDEEN AND DUNS SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES

In June 2018, Graham Whitson, a 32-year-old man with ties to Aberdeen and Duns, was convicted of possessing indecent images of children. The court sentenced him to 250 hours of unpaid community service, which he is required to complete within a nine-month period. Additionally, Whitson was placed under supervision for one year and was mandated to register as a sex offender for the same duration.

The charges stemmed from an incident that took place on September 20, 2016, at a property located in Glebe Park, Duns. Whitson, who provided an address in the village of Burnmouth, initially denied the allegations. However, following a trial, the evidence presented was sufficient to establish his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

During the proceedings, defence lawyer Stephanie Clinkscale highlighted that her client had lost his employment as a consequence of the charges. Despite this setback, Whitson expressed hope of starting his own welding business in the future, aiming to rebuild his life after the conviction.

The case was part of a broader investigation into the possession of indecent images of children, a serious offence that has prompted increased scrutiny from law enforcement agencies across the Borders region. The court's decision also included a deferred sentencing component, with the final sentence scheduled for June 18, pending the production of background reports that will inform the court's final judgment.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by authorities in the Borders area to combat crimes involving child exploitation and to ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions, with the safety and protection of children remaining a top priority.