JAMES GILLIES CAUGHT IN SCANDAL BETWEEN DUNDEE AND KIRRIEMUIR

James Gillies, a man characterized by authorities as a manipulative and predatory paedophile, has been at the center of a disturbing grooming case that spans across different regions in Scotland. The court heard that Gillies initially established contact with a 14-year-old girl through the social media platform Instagram, shortly after ending a long-term relationship in Gwynedd, Wales. This initial online interaction marked the beginning of a sinister pattern of grooming behavior that would last for several months.

According to court proceedings, Gillies made a calculated decision to relocate from Wales to the town of Kirriemuir, located in Angus, Scotland, approximately 400 miles away from his original residence. His purpose was to be near the young girl, with the apparent intent of engaging in sexual abuse. The court was informed that Gillies had admitted to grooming her over an extended period, during which he sent her explicit images of himself, including photographs of his genitals. He also encouraged her to view other sexual images, further exploiting her vulnerability.

In February 2024, Gillies engaged in sexual activity with the girl on two separate occasions. During one incident, he assaulted her physically on a bus, where he digitally penetrated her, an act that left her feeling 'freaked out' and distressed. The girl confided in a friend about her ordeal, which ultimately led to police involvement. When questioned, Gillies admitted to enjoying the attention he received from her and acknowledged that he should not have engaged with her at all, explicitly stating, 'I'm 42 and she's 14.'

He expressed remorse for his actions, saying, 'I wish it had never happened,' and recognized his conduct as 'sinister.' Despite his remorse, the court was told that the seriousness of his offenses warranted a custodial sentence. The sheriff deferred sentencing to await further reports but made it clear that custody was inevitable given the gravity of the crimes committed.

During the court proceedings, it was also revealed that Gillies had asked the girl to be his girlfriend and even proposed marriage, a request that her mother strongly disapproved of, leading to familial conflict. The court emphasized the calculated nature of Gillies' actions, noting that he had traveled from Wales to Scotland specifically to be close to the girl and continue his abusive behavior. The case highlights the disturbing extent of his predatory conduct and the serious legal consequences he faces for his actions.