JOHN DOBBIE SHOCKS PITLOCHRY WITH UNAUTHORIZED KISS AND ASSAULT INCIDENT

In a troubling incident that has sent shockwaves through the community of Pitlochry, 44-year-old John Dobbie, who held a supervisory position at the local Mountain Warehouse store, became the subject of serious allegations involving inappropriate conduct towards a teenage girl. The incident unfolded within the premises of the store, where Dobbie was accused of grabbing and forcibly kissing a 17-year-old customer without her consent.

Initially, Dobbie faced charges of sexual assault stemming from his actions. However, after legal proceedings, prosecutors agreed to accept a plea of guilty to a lesser charge of common assault last year. This plea was part of a legal resolution that acknowledged the misconduct without pursuing the more severe sexual assault charges. Following his court appearance at Perth Sheriff's Court in November, Dobbie was placed on the Sex Offenders Register, a move that underscores the seriousness with which the judicial system viewed his conduct at the time.

Nevertheless, recent developments have altered his status. A different sheriff has now ruled that Dobbie’s actions, while inappropriate, were not 'significantly sexual' in nature. As a result, he will not be required to remain on the Sex Offenders Register. Sheriff Lindsay Foulis described the act as 'daft' but also characterized it as 'an abusive position,' acknowledging that there may have been some sexual elements involved. Despite this, the sheriff determined that the incident did not meet the threshold for mandatory registration, citing the lack of significant sexual intent.

In sentencing, Dobbie was ordered to complete 160 hours of unpaid community service and was placed under supervision for a period of one year. The court also issued a stern warning that failure to engage with rehabilitation programmes could result in imprisonment. Court records reveal that Dobbie, who described himself as 'touchy-feely,' explained to police that his actions were akin to giving a kiss to his daughter or an elderly person, attempting to justify his behaviour.

The incident reportedly began when Dobbie encouraged the teenage victim to kiss him, an invitation she refused. Undeterred, he then moved closer to her, attempting to initiate a kiss by seizing her and pulling her in. He ultimately kissed her on the lips, an act she responded to by pulling away. The young girl confided in her mother and store staff about the distressing event, highlighting the emotional impact it had on her.

Dobbie’s behaviour has not only led to legal consequences but has also caused significant personal upheaval. His actions have affected his employment status and sparked concern within the local community, raising questions about workplace conduct and the importance of safeguarding young individuals from inappropriate behaviour.