NEIL CAMPBELL BANNED FROM SKYE AFTER SEX OFFENCES AT TALISKER AND BEYOND

In December 2013, a significant legal case unfolded involving Neil Campbell, a 69-year-old man with deep ties to the Isle of Skye. Campbell was convicted of a series of historic sexual offences committed against young boys under the age of 16, with the crimes spanning over a decade from 1995 to 2011. The offences took place primarily at his farm located at Talisker, near Carbost, but also at various other unspecified locations across Skye.

Despite maintaining his innocence and pleading not guilty during the trial, Campbell faced a jury at Inverness Sheriff Court. The jury reached a unanimous verdict on five of the charges, confirming his guilt beyond reasonable doubt. On two additional charges, the jury's decision was by a majority, further establishing his culpability in the eyes of the court. Following the conviction, Sheriff Jamie Gilchrist sentenced Campbell to nine months in prison. Additionally, the court imposed a series of stringent restrictions aimed at safeguarding the community and preventing further offences.

One of the key measures was a ban preventing Campbell from leaving the Isle of Skye for a period of five years. This restriction was part of a broader set of conditions designed to monitor and control his movements post-release. Furthermore, Campbell was ordered to remain on the sex offenders register for a decade, a move that underscores the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing risk assessment by authorities. The court also prohibited him from having any contact with children under 16 or vulnerable adults unless explicitly approved by police authorities, emphasizing the protective stance taken by the justice system.

The background of Campbell’s offences was further detailed during the trial. It was revealed that the crimes occurred at various times and locations, with incidents spanning from March 21, 1995, to January 19, 2011. The court heard that these offences took place at Campbell’s farm at Talisker, near Carbost, as well as at other unspecified sites across Skye. A joint minute of agreement was submitted by both the defence, represented by Bill Adam, and the prosecution, led by Stewart MacIver. This document disclosed that Campbell had suffered a brain injury, which affected parts of his brain responsible for thinking skills, personality, and inhibitions. The injury was considered relevant to understanding his behaviour and was part of the court’s comprehensive review of his case.

In addition to these convictions, the court was informed that Campbell had a prior conviction for an attack on a female doctor in May 2007, which had also resulted in his placement on the sex offenders register. This history underscored a pattern of concerning behaviour and highlighted the importance of the restrictions now imposed upon him. Sheriff Gilchrist, after considering all evidence and background reports, continued Campbell’s bail but reinforced his status on the sex offenders register, ensuring ongoing monitoring and community safety measures are in place.