PERTHSHIRE MAN KEVIN MCLAREN JAILED FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ANIMAL ABUSE
A domestic abuse “demon” who trapped two ex-girlfriends in a horrific and terrifying cycle of violence has been caged for four years.Kevin McLaren, a former groundskeeper at a Perthshire estate, was ordered to stay away from his victims for the rest of his life.
Perth Sheriff Court heard during one outburst he threw his pregnant partner’s cat against a wall and thrust her face into a soiled litter tray, while she begged him to stop and think about her unborn child.
Prosecutors said the 38-year-old became “possessed” when he drank alcohol, even giving a name – Bob – to his abusive persona.
McLaren, of Grampian Court, Crieff Road, Perth, was found guilty of eight assaults against two women, dating back to 2005, and convicted of engaging in a course of abusive behaviour.
Sheriff William Wood stated that his victims were “left with long-lasting psychological scars from which they will never fully recover” and described McLaren as “unremorseful and unrepentant,” noting his statement as he was led downstairs, “There was a lot of lies there as well, sir.
Trust me on that.” The court highlighted McLaren’s pattern of manipulation and control, extending to his victims’ pets, and stressed that he had never accepted responsibility or shown remorse.
Sentencing included a four-year jail term, with a further three years on licence, and a lifetime non-harassment order banning him from contacting his victims in any way.
Sheriff Wood pointed out the significant age and physical disparity between McLaren and his victims, emphasizing the violence used as a form of control, including dragging a woman by her hair, hitting her head against a wall and radiator to the point of danger, attempting to rip her fingernails with his teeth, and assaulting her pet with a metal chain.
The victims consistently testified how McLaren’s conduct kept them in fear and subjugation.
The judge expressed concern about public safety upon his release, underscoring the gravity and extent of his offences.
