JAMES GALLAGHER FROM INVERKEITHING FACES POSSIBLE PRISON SENTENCE AFTER DOMESTIC ABUSE CASE

A man from Inverkeithing, James Gallagher, aged 31, is currently facing the possibility of imprisonment following allegations of domestic abuse. Gallagher's case was brought before Dunfermline Sheriff Court this week, where the court decided to defer sentencing to allow for further assessment of his suitability for a specialized behaviour modification program known as the Caledonian Project, which is designed specifically for men convicted of domestic violence offences.

Gallagher, who resides at Forth View, appeared in the dock on Wednesday to face charges related to a series of troubling incidents that took place between March 1 and April 8 of this year. During this period, he engaged in a pattern of conduct that caused significant fear and distress to his former partner. The court heard that Gallagher repeatedly phoned her, contacted another individual multiple times in an attempt to locate her, and even tried to obtain her current phone number through various means. These actions were deemed to have caused her considerable alarm and anxiety.

Sheriff Alastair Brown addressed Gallagher directly during the hearing, noting that he was currently under a community payback order which included an unpaid work requirement. The sheriff expressed concern over Gallagher’s criminal record, which includes two recent domestic violence convictions. Gallagher had previously pleaded guilty to charges of stalking, and he showed reluctance to participate in the Caledonian Programme, a structured intervention aimed at addressing domestic abuse behaviors. Additionally, Gallagher was hesitant about being placed under a Restriction of Liberty Order, which would impose certain restrictions on his movements.

Solicitor Elaine Buist, representing Gallagher, explained that her client had reservations about wearing a tag, citing that it had previously led to an increase in his alcohol consumption. Despite this, she mentioned that she had managed to persuade him to consider the Caledonian Programme, emphasizing its success with other clients and the positive changes it had brought about in their attitudes towards domestic offending.

However, Sheriff Brown made it clear that he was not open to negotiations. He stated, “If the Caledonian project can make a difference to the way you behave, that will be in everybody’s interests.” The sheriff further explained that he would defer the case for a reassessment of Gallagher’s suitability for the program but warned him sternly, “The offence you committed was a significant one. If I cannot find a constructive solution, I will send you to prison.”

As a result, the court postponed the sentencing hearing until February 5, giving Gallagher another opportunity to demonstrate his willingness to engage with the rehabilitation program and potentially avoid a custodial sentence.