MARK ROBERTSON COVE BAY ABERDEENSHIRE TEACHER SENTENCED FOR INTERNET SEX CHAT WITH TEENAGE STUDENT

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community of Cove Bay and the wider Aberdeenshire area, Mark Robertson, a 37-year-old physics teacher at Portlethen Academy, was brought before Aberdeen Sheriff Court to face charges related to inappropriate online conduct with a teenage girl. The incident, which took place between December 2007 and January 2008, involved Robertson engaging in sexually suggestive conversations with a pupil via the internet, raising serious concerns about the boundaries of teacher-student relationships and the safeguarding of minors.

Initially, the exchanges between Robertson and the teenage girl appeared to be harmless, but over time, they escalated into more explicit and sexual in nature. The misconduct only came to light when the girl, later in 2009, confided in an adult about the nature of her online interactions with the teacher. It was during this disclosure that the authorities were alerted, leading to the investigation and subsequent court proceedings.

One of the messages sent by the girl to Robertson read, “Sorry you’re going to hate me,” which he responded to with concern, asking, “What have you done? Am I going to get beaten up or put to jail?” This exchange highlighted the emotional distress and confusion experienced by the teenager, as well as the seriousness of the situation.

During the court hearing, defence counsel David Moggach argued that the sexual content involved was of a very mild nature. He acknowledged that the conversations were inappropriate, especially given Robertson’s role as a teacher, but emphasized that there was no predatory or abusive intent involved. Moggach also highlighted Robertson’s reputation as a well-regarded educator who was known for going the extra mile for his pupils.

Furthermore, the lawyer stated that Robertson had since taken steps to change his career path, undergoing retraining in health and safety, indicating a desire to move away from teaching and reflect on his actions.

Sheriff Kieran McLernan, presiding over the case, noted that there was no evidence to suggest that Robertson’s actions were predatory or indicative of abusive behavior. The court sentenced Robertson to a six-month probation period, during which he will be monitored to ensure compliance with the law and appropriate conduct.

Following the sentencing, a spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council confirmed to BBC Scotland that Mark Robertson was no longer employed by the local authority, effectively ending his professional association with the school and the community of Cove Bay. The case has raised ongoing concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in teacher-student interactions, especially in the digital age.