ROBERT LAWRIE FROM FORT WILLIAM CONVICTED OF SEXUAL OFFENSES IN INVERNESS COURT

A resident of Fort William, Robert Lawrie, has been found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses involving three young victims, along with charges of indecent communication, voyeurism, and sexual exposure. The conviction follows a detailed trial held at Inverness Sheriff Court, where Lawrie, aged 38, maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. Despite his denial, the court heard extensive evidence over several days, including compelling testimonies from the victims themselves.

One of the victims recounted her distress, describing how Lawrie’s inappropriate conduct left her feeling “vulnerable” and “uncomfortable.” The court was informed that Lawrie targeted a teenage girl by physically striking her on the buttocks, making lewd comments about her body, and asking her personal, intimate questions. These actions were part of a pattern of behavior that spanned over a decade, from 2013 to 2023, in the Lochaber area, which includes Fort William.

Further details revealed that Lawrie engaged in indecent communication with the same teenage girl after she turned 18, making a sexual comment towards her. The court also heard that Lawrie had touched another teenage girl on her thigh, slapped her on the buttocks, and touched her over and under her clothing. He also exposed his genitals to her, an act that was witnessed by the victim. Additionally, Lawrie asked her sexual and intimate questions and observed her while she was naked and engaged in a private act.

The third teenage girl was also subjected to physical assault, with Lawrie slapping her on the buttocks. These incidents, which occurred over a ten-year period, paint a disturbing picture of predatory behavior. The victims’ testimonies were supported by evidence presented by fiscal depute Pauline Gair, who emphasized the emotional impact of Lawrie’s actions. One victim described feeling “uncomfortable” and “vulnerable,” recalling her internal struggle with the question, “How do I get out of this?” She added that she wanted to speak out but felt unable to do so at the time.

During the trial, Lawrie’s defense solicitor, Clare Russell, attempted to downplay the severity of his actions by suggesting that his behavior was “playful” or “normal,” and not sexual in nature. She also presented a character reference from Lawrie’s employer of 23 years, describing him as a “valued employee.” Ms. Russell requested that Lawrie be granted bail while pre-sentencing reports, including a criminal justice social work assessment and a program called Moving Forward 2 Change, were prepared.

However, Sheriff Eilidh MacDonald was clear in her judgment. She informed Lawrie that he had been convicted on all six charges and that sentencing would be deferred to allow for further reports. The sheriff emphasized the seriousness of the offenses and stated that all sentencing options would be considered. Additionally, Lawrie, who resides in Lochyside, Fort William, was immediately placed on the sex offenders register, with the duration of registration to be determined at sentencing. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of the crimes committed and the impact on the victims involved.