IAN BROWN FROM PEEBLES SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ASSAULT IN GALASHIELS AND PEEBLES

Ian Brown, a 41-year-old man from Peebles, has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison following a severe assault on his partner that resulted in serious injuries, permanent disfigurement, and posed a life-threatening risk. The conviction was handed down at Selkirk Sheriff Court after a comprehensive three-day jury trial that examined the details of the case.

During the trial, it was established that Brown engaged in a sustained pattern of abusive behavior towards his partner, which took place at a hotel in Peebles and a residence in Gala Park, Galashiels. The incidents spanned from November 2021 until January 29, 2022. The jury found Brown guilty unanimously of these charges, which included shouting and swearing at the woman, issuing threats of violence, and on one particularly alarming occasion, physically grabbing her by the neck and applying pressure until she lost consciousness.

The court heard that the assault was not an isolated incident but part of a course of abusive conduct. The severity of the injuries inflicted on the woman was emphasized, with the court noting the lasting disfigurement and danger to her life. Brown’s actions demonstrated a clear pattern of violence and intimidation, prompting the court to impose a significant custodial sentence.

Prior to the conviction, Brown had admitted to two other charges related to threatening and abusive behavior during a police journey between Gala Park and Galashiels Police Station on January 29 of the previous year. He also failed to provide police officers with his name and address when questioned, further complicating his legal situation.

Sheriff Peter Paterson ordered that the sentence of 28 months be backdated to January 31, 2022, the day Brown was first remanded in custody. This means that the time Brown has already spent in detention will be counted towards his sentence, ensuring that the full term is served from that date. The case highlights the ongoing issues of domestic violence and the importance of holding offenders accountable for their actions in the Scottish justice system.