SCOTT CUTHBERTSON FROM PAISLEY ARRESTED FOR CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA

A resident of Paisley, Scott Cuthbertson, was taken into custody following a disturbing incident involving the online sharing of child sexual abuse material. The investigation was triggered after Cuthbertson uploaded a Category A video—classified as the most severe form of child exploitation content—onto the social media platform Snapchat in July 2021. This alarming activity was brought to the attention of authorities, prompting a swift response from Police Scotland.

In October 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Cuthbertson’s residence on Hawkhead Road in Paisley. During the raid, they confiscated his iPhone for forensic examination. The analysis of the device uncovered a series of messages and images that heightened concerns about his involvement in child exploitation. A detailed forensic review confirmed the existence of three images and one video depicting sexual abuse involving young female children aged between eight and fifteen years old.

Following the evidence collection, Cuthbertson was summoned to Greenock police station on October 5, 2022. There, he was formally arrested and taken into custody. During police questioning, he chose to respond with a simple 'no comment' to all inquiries, refusing to provide any explanations or admissions. The investigation also revealed that, over a period spanning from December 30, 2019, to October 5, 2022, Cuthbertson possessed indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of children, further implicating him in the ongoing inquiry.

Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Cuthbertson’s legal representatives acknowledged that he has been on bail since October 2022 without any reported issues. The court proceedings included a hearing where it was noted that he is currently registered as a sex offender. He is expected to remain on the sex offenders' register until his sentencing, which is scheduled for July 30, 2024. At that time, comprehensive background reports will be prepared to determine any additional restrictions or conditions that may be imposed.

In light of the evidence and ongoing investigations, Sheriff Clare Arias decided to defer sentencing to allow for further assessment. She also ordered that Cuthbertson continue to be listed on the sex offenders' register during this period, emphasizing the seriousness of the case and the need for thorough evaluation before final judgment.