KEEGAN SMITH FROM GALASHIELS SENTENCED FOR DOMESTIC ASSAULT IN MELROSE AND GALASHIELS

In a series of serious legal proceedings, Keegan Smith, a resident of Galashiels, has faced multiple convictions related to domestic violence incidents involving his former partner. The incidents took place in Melrose and Galashiels, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior that has culminated in significant legal consequences.

In February 2018, Smith, aged 23 at the time, was sentenced to six months in prison after being found guilty of assaulting his former partner. The incident occurred on December 12 in Buccleuch Street, Melrose, where Smith was accused of pushing her to the ground during a heated argument. Despite denying the assault, Smith was convicted following a trial presided over by Sheriff Peter Paterson. The court noted that Smith had been remanded in custody since January 22, and his sentence was back-dated to that date, resulting in a total of 180 days imprisonment.

Furthermore, the court imposed a three-year non-harassment order in favor of the woman, aiming to prevent any further contact or intimidation. Interestingly, Smith was acquitted of two other domestic-related charges involving the same woman, as the sheriff determined there was insufficient evidence to proceed with those allegations.

Prior to this, in December 2016, Smith, then 22 years old and residing in Galashiels, was sentenced to four months in jail after pleading guilty to assaulting his partner. The incident took place at a residence in Morrow Gardens, Melrose, on December 6. Court records revealed that Smith became enraged after his partner received a visit from a friend, whom he accused of flirting with her. This suspicion led to an argument, during which Smith punched her in the head, causing visible bruising.

During the hearing, defense lawyer Ross Dow explained that the 11-month relationship had ended, especially after Smith, who was then remanded in custody, discovered that his partner had been unfaithful to him. The court was also informed that this was Smith’s fifth appearance in court during 2016 on charges related to domestic violence. Sheriff Kevin Drummond sentenced Smith to four months in prison, with the sentence back-dated to December 7, the day he was first remanded in custody.

These cases underscore the ongoing issues of domestic violence involving Keegan Smith, with legal actions taken to address his conduct and protect his former partner from further harm.