NICOL MCLAREN FROM BLAIRGOWRIE FACES SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES IN LERWICK COURT

Nicol McLaren, a resident of Blairgowrie, appeared before Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday to face serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving a female victim. The court proceedings revealed that on the 28th of January, McLaren engaged in inappropriate behavior that has now led to criminal charges.

According to the prosecution, Duncan Mackenzie, the procurator fiscal, outlined that McLaren, aged 64, was introduced to the woman by two acquaintances he knew from a local pub. This meeting took place after McLaren had finished his role as a compere at an event held elsewhere in Lerwick. The court heard that during their interaction, McLaren attempted to entertain the woman by claiming he could perform a magic trick that would make her breasts levitate.

However, instead of performing a harmless trick, McLaren proceeded to inappropriately touch the woman. He groped her breasts and lifted them, an act that left her feeling extremely shocked and violated. The court was told that the woman initially tried to dismiss the incident with laughter, perhaps as a defense mechanism, but the emotional impact was profound. She later went to the toilets with a friend, where she broke down emotionally, overwhelmed by the experience.

It was reported that the woman felt completely violated by McLaren’s actions. After the incident, she chose to leave the venue through a different exit and was subsequently picked up to go home. Following the event, she sought support from local services and eventually reported the assault to the police. During police interviews, McLaren initially denied that the incident had occurred, denying any wrongdoing.

The court was informed that the case has been adjourned until the 2nd of July to allow for the preparation of a social work report. Additionally, McLaren has been ordered to comply with notification requirements under the sex offenders register. The defense is scheduled to present mitigation at the next hearing, which will further clarify McLaren’s position and any relevant circumstances.

Sheriff David Harvie emphasized the seriousness of the case and the importance of thorough legal procedures, ensuring that justice is served while allowing for proper case preparation.