JOHN SIMPSON FROM HUNTLY SENTENCED AFTER ONLINE THREATS AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR IN ABERDEEN

John Simpson, a 32-year-old man from Huntly, has been handed a custodial sentence following a series of alarming threats and aggressive conduct that unfolded both online and during his arrest in Aberdeen. The case, which drew significant attention at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, revealed a disturbing pattern of behavior that culminated in Simpson's imprisonment and a court order to prevent further contact with his former partner.

According to court records, Simpson had maintained a relationship with his ex-partner for approximately one year before their separation. The breakdown of their relationship appeared to be a catalyst for the subsequent events. The trouble began when Simpson sent a message via Facebook to his ex-partner, in which he used derogatory language to refer to her mother, calling her a 'fat mutt.' He also urged her to cease spreading what he claimed were lies about him, indicating a desire to control or intimidate her through digital means.

As the messages continued, Simpson escalated his threats, explicitly stating his intention to cause harm. He posted a public message on Facebook where he threatened to 'slit the throat' of his ex-partner's mother and watch her suffer in pain. This explicit threat significantly heightened her fear for her safety, prompting her to contact law enforcement authorities for protection. The police responded swiftly, attempting to arrest Simpson at his residence in Huntly. However, during his arrest, Simpson displayed aggressive and disruptive behavior, refusing to cooperate and verbally abusing the officers present. He called one officer a 'sheep shagger' and directed other insults at the police, including calling them 'fat sluts.'

During the court proceedings, Simpson admitted to making the threatening online posts and acknowledged his actions. The court also took into account his mental health struggles, which were presented as part of his defense. Despite this, Sheriff Morag McLaughlin found the threats and his conduct to be of a serious nature, warranting a firm legal response. Simpson was sentenced to eight months in prison and was issued a non-harassment order that prohibits him from contacting his ex-partner for a period of two years.

This case underscores the importance of addressing online threats and the potential for digital communications to escalate into real-world violence. It also highlights the necessity of safeguarding victims from abusive and threatening behavior, whether online or in person. The court's decision reflects a clear stance on the need to protect individuals from such aggressive conduct, reaffirming the legal system's commitment to ensuring safety and justice in cases involving threats and abuse.