MARK SCOTT FROM HAWICK INDICTED FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE NEAR ROSEBANK ROAD

A man residing in Hawick has publicly admitted to engaging in controlling and aggressive behavior towards his wife during a court session held at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Mark Scott, aged 46, faced charges related to a series of intimidating and physically restrictive actions that took place over a period of time. He pleaded guilty to multiple acts of hostility, including loud shouting, swearing, and threatening conduct directed at his wife. The court heard that Scott's behavior was not only verbally aggressive but also involved physical interference and attempts to dominate his partner.

Among the actions he admitted to were turning off the electricity supply in their home, seizing her car keys and mobile phone, and unplugging her hair dryer to prevent her from using it. He also physically restrained her, dragged her around the house, and threw a dog lead at her in an apparent attempt to control her movements. On one occasion, he prevented her from leaving their residence on Rosebank Road, effectively trapping her inside.

The incidents in question occurred between July 24 and August 1 of the previous year, marking a troubling period of domestic unrest. The court was informed that Scott and his wife had been in a relationship for 16 years, with four of those years spent as a married couple. The violence and controlling behavior appeared to escalate as their relationship was coming to an end.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Scott made threatening statements such as, "You are either with me or not," which underscored the coercive nature of his actions. The court also heard that he shouted at his wife to leave, turned off the electricity so she could not charge her mobile phone, and even dragged her downstairs by her feet in a display of physical dominance.

On July 25, Scott took her car keys and refused to return them, claiming ownership of the vehicle. Further incidents included him questioning her early in the morning, restraining her against a door, and making disparaging remarks about her social interactions with others.

On August 1, the situation reached a critical point when Scott prevented her from completing her grooming routine by unplugging her hairdryer, confiscating her glasses, and taking her phone. These actions effectively blocked her from leaving the house or calling for help. Despite his efforts, the woman managed to escape the residence and reported the incident to the police.

In sentencing, the court ordered Scott to complete 150 hours of unpaid work under a Community Pay Back order. He was also instructed to pay his ex-wife £200 in compensation for the distress caused. Additionally, a two-year Non-Harassment Order was issued against him, prohibiting any contact with the victim.

During the hearing, Scott’s defense lawyer stated that his client wished to move on from the relationship, implying a desire to put the troubling events behind him. However, the court emphasized the seriousness of his actions and the need to protect victims of domestic abuse from further harm.