MINTLAW MAN JAMES RITCHIE PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL AND VIOLENT OFFENCES IN SHOCKING CASE

James Ritchie, a 60-year-old resident of Mintlaw, has admitted to a series of grave sexual and violent crimes committed against women. His appearance at Peterhead Sheriff Court marked a significant development in a case that has drawn considerable attention due to the severity and nature of his offenses.

Ritchie's criminal conduct spans over a three-year period, beginning in March 2021 and continuing until April 2024. During this time, he engaged in a pattern of coercive and aggressive behaviors aimed at forcing compliance from his victims. The court heard detailed accounts of his misconduct, which included threats, physical assaults, and manipulative tactics designed to intimidate and control those he targeted.

Among the charges, Ritchie was accused of coercing a woman into performing a sexual act without her consent, while simultaneously threatening to send explicit images of her to her father. This act of intimidation exemplifies the manipulative and threatening nature of his behavior. In addition, witnesses reported seeing him watching pornography and masturbating in front of them, or finding him waiting naked in his home while engaging in sexual acts. These disturbing incidents highlight a pattern of inappropriate and criminal conduct that caused significant distress to his victims.

Further allegations include threats to disclose intimate images of a woman to her father, as well as physical assaults and coercive behaviors involving his own children. The court heard that Ritchie's actions extended beyond his interactions with women, encompassing threats and violence within his family environment. His address was noted as Bridgefoot of Gaval, near Mintlaw, and he is now subject to supervised reporting requirements as a registered sex offender.

As the case moves forward, Ritchie is scheduled to return to court next month for sentencing. The court will consider a comprehensive report, including input from social workers and other professionals, to determine the appropriate punishment. The judge emphasized the importance of honesty during this process, warning Ritchie to cooperate fully with social workers and to understand the gravity of his actions. The sentencing options remain open, with the court prepared to impose measures such as non-harassment orders to protect his victims and prevent further harm. The case underscores the serious nature of sexual and violent offenses and the ongoing efforts of the justice system to address such conduct in the community of Mintlaw and beyond.