A prominent community figure from Kinross has been ordered to undertake unpaid work after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a female colleague within a Fife hospital. William Freeman, who had a long-standing role within the Kinross community, was convicted following a trial at Dundee Sheriff Court.
The court heard details of a period spanning from January 2022 to January 2025, during which Freeman subjected the woman to a series of unwelcome and inappropriate acts. These included repeatedly striking her buttocks with various items, indecently touching her over her clothing, and directing sexually offensive remarks towards her. The cumulative effect of these actions constituted sexual assault and harassment in the workplace.
Freeman’s conviction marks a significant development for the Kinross area, where he was a well-known personality. Having served as a community councillor for nearly two decades, and previously holding the position of vice-chair, his involvement in local initiatives, such as organising the town’s Christmas lights, was widely recognised. Such a breach of trust by an individual in a public service role can resonate deeply within close-knit communities across Perth and Kinross, highlighting the importance of accountability and safe environments. Court Proceedings and Defence Arguments
During the court proceedings at Dundee Sheriff Court, the defence solicitor, Sarah McIlwham, presented arguments highlighting Freeman’s lack of experience in romantic relationships. She suggested that he may have harboured hopes for a relationship to develop, leading to a perceived blurring of boundaries in his interactions. Freeman conveyed his apologies and remorse for the distress and emotional toll his actions inflicted upon the complainer, acknowledging the seriousness of his conduct.
Sheriff Tim Niven-Smith presided over the sentencing. He carefully considered the circumstances, noting Freeman’s previously unblemished character and his long history of community engagement. The Sheriff concluded that Freeman was not a “deviant” nor a “danger to the public,” distinguishing his actions from those of a more malicious nature, though still criminal.
The Sheriff acknowledged that some of the earlier conduct, which he characterised as “high-jinx,” might have been perceived differently in a past social context. However, he stressed that other aspects of the behaviour were unequivocally sexual and inappropriate. This distinction underscored the evolving understanding of workplace conduct and personal boundaries. Sentence and Future Implications
In light of his previous good character and the court’s assessment, Freeman was spared a custodial sentence. Instead, he was ordered to perform 200 hours of unpaid work, a form of community payback that the court heard he was keen to undertake as a means of contributing positively to society following his conviction. This decision reflects a judicial balance between punishment and rehabilitation, taking into account the specific details of the case and the offender’s background.
As a consequence of his conviction, Freeman has been suspended from his role as a catering manager and is expected to face termination following an internal investigation. Furthermore, he will be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years. This measure serves to protect the public and ensure ongoing monitoring of individuals convicted of sexual offences. The outcome of this case underscores the serious repercussions of such actions, particularly for individuals who hold positions of trust and responsibility within their communities.
The resolution of this case will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion among residents of Kinross and broader Perth and Kinross, serving as a stark reminder of the legal and social consequences of inappropriate conduct, especially when it involves those entrusted with public roles.
The court heard details of a period spanning from January 2022 to January 2025, during which Freeman subjected the woman to a series of unwelcome and inappropriate acts. These included repeatedly striking her buttocks with various items, indecently touching her over her clothing, and directing sexually offensive remarks towards her. The cumulative effect of these actions constituted sexual assault and harassment in the workplace.
Freeman’s conviction marks a significant development for the Kinross area, where he was a well-known personality. Having served as a community councillor for nearly two decades, and previously holding the position of vice-chair, his involvement in local initiatives, such as organising the town’s Christmas lights, was widely recognised. Such a breach of trust by an individual in a public service role can resonate deeply within close-knit communities across Perth and Kinross, highlighting the importance of accountability and safe environments. Court Proceedings and Defence Arguments
During the court proceedings at Dundee Sheriff Court, the defence solicitor, Sarah McIlwham, presented arguments highlighting Freeman’s lack of experience in romantic relationships. She suggested that he may have harboured hopes for a relationship to develop, leading to a perceived blurring of boundaries in his interactions. Freeman conveyed his apologies and remorse for the distress and emotional toll his actions inflicted upon the complainer, acknowledging the seriousness of his conduct.
Sheriff Tim Niven-Smith presided over the sentencing. He carefully considered the circumstances, noting Freeman’s previously unblemished character and his long history of community engagement. The Sheriff concluded that Freeman was not a “deviant” nor a “danger to the public,” distinguishing his actions from those of a more malicious nature, though still criminal.
The Sheriff acknowledged that some of the earlier conduct, which he characterised as “high-jinx,” might have been perceived differently in a past social context. However, he stressed that other aspects of the behaviour were unequivocally sexual and inappropriate. This distinction underscored the evolving understanding of workplace conduct and personal boundaries. Sentence and Future Implications
In light of his previous good character and the court’s assessment, Freeman was spared a custodial sentence. Instead, he was ordered to perform 200 hours of unpaid work, a form of community payback that the court heard he was keen to undertake as a means of contributing positively to society following his conviction. This decision reflects a judicial balance between punishment and rehabilitation, taking into account the specific details of the case and the offender’s background.
As a consequence of his conviction, Freeman has been suspended from his role as a catering manager and is expected to face termination following an internal investigation. Furthermore, he will be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years. This measure serves to protect the public and ensure ongoing monitoring of individuals convicted of sexual offences. The outcome of this case underscores the serious repercussions of such actions, particularly for individuals who hold positions of trust and responsibility within their communities.
The resolution of this case will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion among residents of Kinross and broader Perth and Kinross, serving as a stark reminder of the legal and social consequences of inappropriate conduct, especially when it involves those entrusted with public roles.