KEVIN DURNO ARBROATH DOMESTIC ABUSER SENTENCED TO PRISON AND NON-HARASSMENT ORDER

Kevin Durno, a man from Arbroath, has been convicted and sentenced for a series of abusive behaviors directed towards his former partner. The court heard that Durno, aged 38, engaged in a sustained campaign of coercive and threatening conduct over a period of several days, which included attempts to control his ex-partner’s personal choices and frequent harassment.

According to court records, Durno’s abusive actions took place between May 22 and May 31. During this period, he attempted to prevent his ex-partner from wearing makeup, claiming that her use of cosmetics was a sign of infidelity. This bizarre and controlling behavior was part of a broader pattern of emotional and psychological abuse. Durno also made repeated phone calls to her on both her mobile and landline, forcing her to block his numbers to avoid further contact. His calls were not only persistent but also offensive, as he used derogatory language and made threats of violence, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation for his victim.

In addition to the phone harassment, Durno made an uninvited visit to a residence on Great Michael Road in Arbroath, where he issued threats directly to his ex-partner. The court was also informed that between June 3 and June 7, Durno continued his abusive conduct at various locations around Arbroath, further demonstrating a pattern of controlling and threatening behavior.

He appeared in court for sentencing after being remanded in custody since June 20, pending the preparation of a criminal justice report. During the proceedings, his defense solicitor acknowledged that Durno was aware of the seriousness of his actions and the potential for imprisonment. However, Durno expressed a desire to remain free so he could continue operating his business and employ two staff members.

Despite this, Sheriff Gregor Murray highlighted Durno’s extensive history of domestic abuse, noting that these recent offenses were part of a long-standing pattern. The sheriff pointed out that the offenses occurred while Durno was on bail and under a community payback order for similar offenses committed against the same woman, indicating a troubling pattern of repeated behavior.

In light of these factors, Sheriff Murray sentenced Durno to 14 months in prison. Additionally, he imposed a two-year non-harassment order, explicitly stating that Durno was responsible for causing difficulties for his ex-partner’s employment and well-being. The sheriff also referenced Durno’s previous convictions for breaching bail conditions related to domestic abuse, describing his conduct as “sly and mean,” and emphasizing the need to protect victims from further harm.