Sheriff shows mercy on mum who swore at ex

Anger over former partner’s timekeeping led to outburst

A mum who lost the rag with her ex after he showed up late with their children again was hauled in front of a sheriff.

Anna McGeachie appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court on Wednesday, where she pled guilty to shouting ‘f ***** g c***s’ towards Stuart McKillop and his new partner Gillian Kerr.

Sheriff Eoin McGinty showed mercy on McGeachie, 42, and has given her a chance to prove herself following the incident on July 12, 2020 in Castle Road, Bridge of Weir.

Procurator fiscal depute Amber Feeney told the court: “Around 8pm on July 12, McKillop attended at the accused’s address to drop off their two children.

“Gillian Kerr was in the front passenger seat at this time.

“McKillop opened the back doors to let the kids out and went to the rear of the car to get their belongings out of the boot.

“The accused then approached, calling McKillop irresponsible.

“She opened the driver’s door and shouted at McKillop and Kerr calling them, ‘f ***** g c***s’.

“He left and called the police. “Police then attended at McGeachie’s home address, where she was cautioned and charged and she replied, ‘I did not threaten them in anyway whatsoever.’”

Defence agent Mr Miller told the court there was a “substantial background” to this incident.

He told: “Ms McGeachie accepts full responsibility for what she said.

“There had been a building degree of frustration and animosity due to McKillop’s constant lateness in arriving for or with the children.

“And again on this occasion, he turned up late, despite being told when to be there.

“And, unfortunately, this got the better of her.

“She has apologised personally to both McKillop and Kerr wholeheartedly and profusely.

“She has learned her lesson with this bringing her to a criminal court for the first time in her life.

“Given she has no previous convictions, works in a vets parttime and that there was one singular phrase, I ask she is either given an absolute discharge or that sentence is deferred for good behaviour.”

Sheriff Eoin McGinty said: “You are 42, you have no previous convictions and you have a responsible job.

“I am going to take an unusual course of action.

“I am considering an absolute discharge in this case to prevent a criminal conviction, but I think some testimonials from your employers will be beneficial in this case.

“Mr Miller has told me of the background here and there was a singular phrase said here.

“I will continue this case for two weeks to gain the testimonials.”

The case was continued until May 6 without proceeding to conviction.

There had been a building degree of frustration and animosity due to McKillop’s constant lateness

Amber Feeney