WILLIAM NICOLL HORSE MOLESTER FROM CRIEFF AND PERTH SHERIFF COURT

In June 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving William Nicoll, a man with a troubling history of sexual misconduct, who was found guilty of sexually assaulting a teenage girl at a McDonald's restaurant located on Dunkeld Road in Perth. This incident took place amidst a background of previous offenses that have marred Nicoll's reputation over the years.

William Nicoll, aged 75 at the time of the recent court proceedings, had previously been placed on the sex offenders register in 2013 following a shocking incident involving a horse near Crieff. The earlier offense involved Nicoll repeatedly inserting his hand into the rear of a horse, an act that drew the attention of the animal’s owner. When confronted, Nicoll offered a disturbing explanation, stating, “I’m very lonely,” which added a layer of complexity and concern to his case.

Fast forward to the recent case, Nicoll appeared before Perth Sheriff Court last week, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault against a female teenager. The assaults occurred on May 23 of that year, and the court was informed of the details surrounding the incident. Sheriff Euan Duthie decided to defer sentencing until July 13, pending the preparation of background reports that would shed more light on Nicoll’s history and circumstances. Additionally, the court is considering issuing a non-harassment order to prevent Nicoll from making contact with his victim, aiming to protect her from further distress.

This recent court appearance is not Nicoll’s first encounter with the legal system for similar conduct. Nine years prior, he admitted to a sexually aggravated breach of the peace after being caught in a field near Crieff engaging in inappropriate behavior with a horse. The incident was witnessed by children, and the horse’s owner was left “physically sickened” by the event. When questioned, Nicoll explained his actions by claiming loneliness, saying, “I live by myself and I’m very lonely.”

Prosecutor Carol Whyte described the earlier incident as deeply disturbing, emphasizing the impact on the horse’s owner and the community’s sense of safety. The court heard that Nicoll was observed by a neighbor following the animal and engaging in repeated inappropriate contact, often when no one was watching. His lawyer, Alison McKay, described Nicoll as “vulnerable” and expressed a wish that he could have been a veterinarian, perhaps indicating a desire to care for animals in a professional capacity.

As the legal proceedings continue, William Nicoll’s sentencing for the recent sexual assault is scheduled for July 13. The court’s decisions, including potential restrictions on his contact with the victim, aim to address the seriousness of his actions and protect the community from further harm. The case highlights a troubling pattern of behavior that has persisted over many years, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of those around him, especially vulnerable individuals and animals in the Crieff and Perth areas.