INVERNESS MAN MARTIN SHAW FACES COURT OVER DOMESTIC ABUSE AND VIOLENCE

Martin Shaw, a 47-year-old resident of Inverness, appeared before the Inverness Sheriff Court to face sentencing after admitting to multiple serious offenses related to domestic abuse and aggressive conduct. The court proceedings shed light on a troubling pattern of threatening and violent behavior directed towards two women with whom Shaw was involved at different times.

According to court reports, Shaw exhibited aggressive and intimidating behavior towards his former partners. One woman, who was involved with Shaw between 2002 and 2003, recounted that he would often become extremely angry and tense. On one notable occasion, she described grabbing a rolling pin and warning Shaw that she would use it to defend herself if necessary. The woman also revealed that after their relationship ended, Shaw continued to send her threatening messages over a period of time, causing her ongoing distress and fear.

Another woman, who had a relationship with Shaw in 2019, provided further insight into his volatile nature. She described how Shaw would criticize her cooking and become visibly angry if she failed to prepare meals to his satisfaction. The court was told that during a trip involving Shaw’s mother and his current partner, Shaw’s temper flared when he refused to join the group for breakfast. Later, he expressed frustration at being left out of the meal, which further demonstrated his tendency towards anger and intolerance.

Witnesses and friends of Shaw’s former partner described the impact of his behavior, noting that she had become withdrawn and fearful even after their relationship had ended. The court heard that Shaw’s aggressive tendencies extended to his daughter, whom he shouted at during their interactions. In a disturbing incident, Shaw reportedly lifted a pool cue rest as if to strike her when she attempted to return his belongings, an act that left the young girl frightened and distressed.

Solicitor Natalie Paterson requested a postponement of Shaw’s sentencing to allow for a comprehensive assessment of his suitability for a community-based program aimed at addressing domestic offending. Specifically, she referred to the Caledonian Men’s Programme, which is designed to help individuals like Shaw modify their behavior and prevent future violence. The sheriff agreed to this request and scheduled the case to return next month, with Shaw to undergo an evaluation to determine whether he is suitable for participation in the program.

Shaw’s address on Fairfield Road in Inverness was noted during the proceedings, and the court emphasized the seriousness of his conduct, which involved threats, violence, and intimidation directed at his former partners and their family members. The case remains ongoing, with sentencing deferred until the completion of the assessment, as authorities seek to determine the most appropriate course of action to address Shaw’s behavior and prevent further harm.