Glasgow ex-Lord Provost jailed for stalking and harassment

A former Lord Provost of Glasgow, Philip Braat, has been found guilty of stalking his ex-partner by bombarding her with texts, social media messages, and emails, including messages containing 'goodbye' letters and an apparent resignation email sent from his professional account. The court heard how he contacted her 122 times between July and September 2024, after their relationship, which began in 2021, ended in July 2024. Braat attempted to persuade her to reunite, expressing that he could 'not live' without her and warning her to 'visit my parents and keep my legacy alive.' The woman received 18 emails, 51 Instagram messages, 15 texts, 37 WhatsApp messages, and one LinkedIn message, some of which were distressing and emotional. She eventually contacted the police, leading to Braat's arrest at his parents' address. At Glasgow Sheriff Court, Braat pleaded guilty to a single charge of stalking and was sentenced to a five-year non-harassment order, banning him from approaching or contacting the woman. He was also ordered to perform 60 hours of unpaid work and fined £840. His lawyer explained that Braat was at a low point, feeling suicidal, and under significant pressure due to the pandemic and personal issues, which contributed to his behavior and mental health breakdown. Sheriff Owen Mullan stated that Braat’s conduct had 'overstepped the mark' and caused stress to his victim. Braat, aged 49 and based in Broomhill, Glasgow, has previously served as deputy Lord Provost in 2017 and Lord Provost from 2020 until 2022. He has a history of involved positions such as convener of the Strathclyde Police Authority and representing Glasgow at COP26. Additionally, Braat is under investigation by Scottish Labour and is a member of several organizations, including the Law Society of Scotland and the Royal Navy Reserves.