GREGOR MACKEY CAUGHT IN CARNOUSTIE WITH CHILD SEXUAL IMAGES AND PLACED ON SEX OFFENDERS REGISTER

In April 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving Gregor Mackay, a resident of Carnoustie, who was found to have downloaded indecent images of children. The incident came to light after police executed a search warrant at his home on March 29 of the previous year. During the raid, authorities recovered multiple electronic devices from Mackay's residence, which is located in Carnoustie, a town known for its close-knit community and scenic golf courses.

Upon examination of these devices, investigators discovered that Mackay, aged 43, had accessed and downloaded images depicting children aged between one and twelve years old engaged in sexual activities. The forensic analysis indicated that the user had employed specialized software designed to facilitate online activity and enable the downloading of illicit files. Furthermore, it was revealed that Mackay had attempted to erase evidence of his activities by using cleaning software, an effort to conceal his actions from investigators.

Details of the case were presented at Dundee Sheriff Court, where fiscal depute Lora Apostolova outlined the findings. She explained that Mackay's online behavior involved viewing and downloading child sexual abuse images, which is a serious criminal offense. The court was informed that Mackay had admitted to the charges, explicitly stating that he wanted to be caught by the police, a startling confession that added a complex layer to the case.

It was also revealed that Mackay had previously appeared in court in October 2020, where he was released on bail under strict conditions. These conditions included a prohibition on possessing internet-enabled devices without prior police approval. Despite this, police discovered that Mackay had secretly purchased a new device after the initial bail, which he used to continue his illicit activities.

The court heard that Mackay had downloaded indecent images of children over a period spanning from January 8, 2017, to June 22, 2020. His possession of an internet-enabled device without registering it with authorities on March 29, 2021, was also admitted. Sheriff George Way emphasized the importance of compliance with the court's orders, warning Mackay that failure to adhere could result in imprisonment.

In sentencing, the court decided on a community-based order as an alternative to jail time. Mackay will be required to participate in the Tay Project Making Changes program, which aims to rehabilitate offenders of this nature. He will also be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for the next three years, with strict supervision. The court noted that the number and nature of the images involved were modest but still serious. As a first-time offender, Mackay's cooperation and compliance with the court's orders are crucial. Any breach without reasonable explanation will lead to a custodial sentence, and he will remain subject to the full requirements of the sex offender notification regime during his supervision period.