Royal Navy Veteran Sentenced to Prison for Sexual Abuse of Teen in Helensburgh

A former Royal Navy employee named Peter MacGregor has been sentenced to prison after admitting to engaging in sexual activity with a teenage girl in Helensburgh. The crimes occurred over a nine-month period while MacGregor was in a position of trust with the girl, who was between 16 and 17 years old at the time. The incidents took place at a house in Helensburgh. MacGregor was sentenced at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on a Friday by Sheriff William Gallacher, who described the abuse as extensive and disgraceful, highlighting that it involved the betrayal of the trust placed in him. MacGregor had previously pleaded guilty to a single charge of sexual activity on various occasions between December 20, 2012, and September 8, 2013. The details of the abuse are too graphic to publish. The court heard that MacGregor, who now resides in Dunfermline, appeared after social workers prepared a background report on his circumstances. His defense acknowledged the gravity of the offense, noting his previous good conduct, a record with only a single previous speeding offense, and his employment history, including a substantial period in the Royal Navy. They also pointed out that his drinking at the time may have affected his behavior. Sheriff Gallacher sentenced MacGregor to 21 months in prison. Additionally, an indefinite non-harassment order was issued, barring him from any contact with his victim. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the abuse, stating it was disgraceful and involved the abuse of trust, with impacts likely to be lifelong for the victim.