JIM FERGUSON SCANDAL SHOCKS GLASGOW: POET AND LECTURER CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ASSAULT

Jim Ferguson, a 63-year-old poet and lecturer specializing in creative writing, has been found guilty of committing a sexual assault against a woman inside his Glasgow flat during September 2022. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the incident, which took place in the comfort of Ferguson’s residence in Glasgow, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene.

According to the evidence presented, Ferguson engaged in inappropriate physical contact with the woman, who was accompanied by her friend, Derek Brown, at the time. The court heard that Ferguson groped the woman, kissed her without consent, and attempted to force a kiss by placing his tongue in her mouth. The woman described the assault as happening suddenly, with Ferguson making a quick movement that left her shocked and surprised. She recounted that the incident occurred while they were listening to music in Ferguson’s flat, a setting that was supposed to be casual but turned into a distressing ordeal.

The woman later experienced flashbacks, which caused her to recall the traumatic event months after it happened. Her testimony was a crucial part of the case, providing insight into the assault and its lasting impact. Prosecutor Redmond Harris detailed the incident, emphasizing the aggressive nature of Ferguson’s actions and the violation of the woman’s personal boundaries.

Ferguson, however, denied any wrongdoing. He claimed that he had only met the woman on three occasions over a span of more than 30 years and insisted that the assault never took place. In his defense, Ferguson accused his former friend, Derek Brown, and the woman herself of orchestrating a harassment campaign against him. He alleged that these actions were retaliation following his expulsion from a local poetry club, suggesting a motive rooted in personal conflicts.

Despite his denials, Ferguson took the step of reporting the matter to the police himself. Nevertheless, he was subsequently charged with sexual assault, a development that he described as a shock. The court ultimately convicted Ferguson after a trial in which he maintained his innocence. When asked directly if he had assaulted the woman, Ferguson responded firmly, “No, I never have.”

The court sentenced Ferguson to a period of ten months under supervision, which included a requirement to register on the sex offenders register. This registration imposes restrictions on his movements, specifically from 7 pm to 7 am, as part of the measures to monitor and prevent further offenses. Additionally, Ferguson was placed under supervision for ten months, reinforcing the court’s concern for public safety and the importance of ongoing oversight.

Throughout the proceedings, Ferguson maintained that he was unaware of the woman contacting the police about the incident, further complicating the case. His conviction underscores the serious nature of the allegations and the court’s judgment that his actions warranted legal consequences, despite his claims of innocence. The case has garnered significant attention in Glasgow, highlighting issues of personal safety and accountability within the community.