Stalking trial on hold after bid to call law chiefs

THE case against a man charged with stalking a senior police complaints director has been postponed after the defence signalled their intention to cite both the Lord Advocate and the presiding sheriff to give evidence.

John O’Hare appeared at Alloa Sheriff Court yesterday charged under Scotland’s stalking laws after being accused of persistently contacting Barry Mackay, head of corporate services with the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc).

It is alleged that between May 20 and July 22 of this year, Mr O’Hare engaged in a course of conduct which caused, or was likely to cause, Mr Mackay fear and alarm in that he repeatedly send him emails which were of a threatening, abusive or offensive nature.

The case had been due to go to trial, but was adjourned after the defence asked for more time to carry out further inquiries into potential witnesses.

The court heard that Mr O’Hare is intending to cite the Lord Advocate Frank Mulholland to come to Alloa Sheriff Court and give evidence on his behalf.

His lawyer also said that Sheriff David Mackie – who was on the bench during yesterday’s hearing – may also be called as a defence witness.

It is believed that Mr O’Hare, from Alva in Clackmannanshire, had been complaining to the PIRC about what he perceived to be cor r uption in Police Scotland.

The 58-year-old maintained his plea of not guilty in relation to the charge and will re-appear at Alloa Sheriff Court later this year.

It is understood that any attempt to cite any witness who has no knowledge of the case will be opposed by the Crown.

Pirc said they would not comment on any ongoing criminal case.