STUART CLARK FROM BLAIRGOWRIE SENTENCED AFTER BRUTAL ATTACK ON WIFE

A 63-year-old man named Stuart Clark from Blairgowrie has been formally sentenced following a violent incident in which he assaulted his wife and forcibly dragged her by her hair within their family home. The assault took place in November 2019, and it left the victim, who has been married to Clark for 35 years, deeply distressed and emotionally shaken. During the attack, Clark's wife sustained a bald patch as a result of hair being pulled from her scalp, a visible and painful injury that underscored the severity of the violence.

Clark was found guilty of the assault and received a custodial sentence of 74 days in jail. In addition to his time behind bars, the court imposed a two-year supervision order, which included strict instructions that he abstain from alcohol consumption. Despite these court orders, Clark later violated the ban on drinking by consuming alcohol on May 5, without any valid justification. His breach was uncovered through police intelligence, which led officers to his residence. When police arrived, they observed Clark slurring his words and noted the presence of empty alcohol containers scattered around his home, indicating recent drinking.

His legal representative described Clark’s behavior during this incident as a 'blip' within the context of his ongoing alcohol treatment program. However, the solicitor emphasized that continued alcohol consumption would severely undermine Clark’s efforts to recover and could potentially lead to further issues. The court, presided over by Sheriff Lindsay Foulis, responded by sentencing Clark to an additional four months in prison. The sheriff also issued a stern warning, urging Clark to reflect on his actions and expressing concern about the detrimental effects of his alcohol abuse on his wife and their relationship.

The court detailed the events leading up to the assault, revealing that the incident was preceded by an argument that escalated into violence. Witnesses reported that Clark made abusive remarks and shouted at his wife before physically grabbing her by the hair. During the altercation, he attempted to open the front door while still holding her, but she managed to break free. The wife then sought refuge by hiding inside a wardrobe and was able to call the police, who responded promptly to the distress call. The court proceedings highlighted Clark’s repeated failure to comply with court-imposed restrictions and underscored the ongoing risks associated with his continued misuse of alcohol, which has serious implications for his family’s safety and well-being.