Man Remanded in Custody After Admitting Sex Offences and Courtroom Disruption

Owen Haughian, 32, of Lerwick's Hoofields, has been remanded in custody after admitting to two separate sexual assaults against young girls. The offences occurred on 1st August and 24th January and were committed after Haughian befriended the girls on social media, according to Procurator Fiscal Duncan MacKenzie.

Haughian's case was initially scheduled for trial yesterday, but he arrived late and exhibited disruptive behavior outside the courtroom. He had consumed a bottle of vodka before attending and was denied access to the courtroom due to his intoxicated state. Subsequently, he was arrested.

In court this morning, a seemingly remorseful Haughian also pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening and abusive manner. He admitted to shouting, swearing, and being disorderly while child witnesses were waiting in the nearby witness room.

Sentence was deferred until 23rd July for Haughian to be dealt with by Sheriff Philip Mann. Social workers will compile background reports for consideration during the sentencing.

Defence agent Tommy Allan requested that Haughian be released on bail, expressing concern that his client might lose his job and tenancy if remanded. However, Mr. MacKenzie opposed bail, citing Haughian's previous convictions, which included "a number of offences that were of an unpleasant nature."

"The situation for him is that he has backed the court into a corner and left the court without any discretion," the fiscal stated.

Honorary Sheriff Sandy Cluness informed Haughian, "I've listened carefully to what your solicitor has said, but these are serious charges - so serious that Sheriff Mann has decided to deal with them himself. In view of all that has been said and the seriousness of the charges, I will defer sentence until 23rd July, and you will be remanded in custody."