EDINBURGH SECURITY WORKER CONVICTED OF KITTEN TORTURE AND KEPT ON JOB
A man named Jonathan Gillespie, aged 26, was found guilty of torturing and killing three defenseless kittens named Kahlua, Ouzo, and Midori.The kittens suffered severe injuries: one had to be euthanized after snapping its spine, another sustained head injuries, a broken tail, and ribs, while the third also died from extensive head trauma.
Despite his guilty plea in February 2005, Gillespie was allowed to retain his position as a security guard at Holyrood Palace.
He was sentenced on Tuesday at Edinburgh sheriff court to 30 months probation, ordered to undergo psychiatric treatment, and was banned from owning animals for five years.
Staff and animal welfare officials expressed their shock and demanded his dismissal, citing concerns about his trustworthiness and the severity of his crimes.
Gillespie reportedly bought the kittens after his girlfriend's cats disappeared mysteriously.
Sheriff Douglas Allan described Gillespie's actions as requiring urgent treatment or significant punishment.
The Scottish Parliament confirmed Gillespie remains employed but stated they would review his case following the court outcome.
