Andrej Vorobjov, a 61-year-old painter and decorator from Dunbeg, has been convicted of stalking a 21-year-old woman over a distressing year-long period. This case, which recently concluded at Oban Sheriff Court, highlights the serious implications of stalking behaviour, a criminal act that leaves victims feeling anxious and unsafe.
During the trial, the woman detailed how Vorobjov would frequently visit her workplace, appearing to stare at her in a manner that was both uncomfortable and unwanted. Court evidence revealed that she often excused herself to avoid him, emphasizing the distress his actions caused her. On more than one occasion, he was seen slowing his vehicle to gawk at her, both on the road and at a bus stop, which only added to her anxiety.
One particularly unsettling instance occurred while she was at a local Wetherspoons pub. Vorobjov stood and stared at her until her aunt intervened, requesting that he stop. His behaviour was described as “creepy” by the young woman in earlier court sessions, a sentiment echoed by the sheriff.
While Vorobjov defended himself by claiming his presence was merely coincidental, alleging that he frequented her workplace for its inexpensive coffee while working on renovations nearby, his credibility was undermined by the Sheriff, Euan Cameron. Sheriff Cameron noted that Vorobjov's evasive answers and inconsistent statements suggested a troubling fixation. "The totality of the other evidence points towards you having a thoroughly unhealthy fixation on the complainer," he remarked, rejecting Vorobjov's claims that he did not recognise the victim.
This case aligns with a growing concern surrounding stalking in Scotland, a crime that has been increasingly recognised in legal contexts. Recent cases in the Oban area further illustrate the serious implications of stalking behaviours. For instance, Piotr Jakubiec, a 42-year-old landscaper, was previously convicted of stalking his ex-partner through unnerving actions such as unannounced visits and stealthily installing a bugging device in her home. In contrast to Vorobjov’s conviction, Jakubiec was handed a non-harassment order, though the sheriff warned that further offenses could lead to substantial penalties.
Another case in Inverness involved Maciej Stasiak, who was fined for persistently contacting his ex-partner despite being under a bail condition prohibiting contact. These instances highlight a pattern of troubling behaviours that can severely impact victims’ mental health and sense of security.
The Sheriff’s ongoing consideration of appropriate sentencing for Vorobjov illustrates the legal system's recognition of the gravity of stalking. Reports including a criminal justice social work report and a restriction of liberty report are now anticipated, and a decision on a potential non-harassment order is set to be revisited on June 11.
These cases underscore a critical message on stalking awareness. Police Scotland emphasises the importance of reporting stalking incidents, outlining common behaviours associated with this crime and providing guidance on ensuring personal safety. As public discussions around stalking behaviours grow, it remains imperative that communities remain vigilant and supportive of victims, ensuring that such harmful patterns of behaviour are addressed assertively.
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Source: Noah Wire Services