A teacher, identified as Richard Greenwood, received an absolute discharge from a sheriff after being found guilty of assaulting a child by restraining his wrists and ankles with cable ties. The incident took place in Edinburgh on August 23, 2023, when the child was six years old. Greenwood, also known as Robin, who works as a lead chemistry teacher at Merchiston Castle School, explained that the act was part of a game to calm the child down after he exhibited dangerous behavior.
During the trial at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Greenwood clarified that the charges were not related to any students at the school and did not occur on school premises. He mentioned that he promptly informed the school about the case when he was charged in late 2024. Greenwood described the event as a misguided attempt to distract the child, who was attempting risky actions, by pretending to play “cops and robbers.” He admitted that using cable ties was a mistake and acknowledged the negative implications of his actions.
Sheriff McCormack, before delivering a guilty verdict on a modified charge, emphasized that even though the incident was brief, it constituted an assault as a child cannot consent to such actions. However, considering the lack of malice and the potential impact on Greenwood’s employment and income, the sheriff granted him an absolute discharge, meaning there will be no further legal repercussions.
Merchiston Castle School issued a statement affirming that the incident did not involve any students or school-related allegations. They assured that appropriate safeguarding procedures were followed upon learning of the charges, and decisions regarding Greenwood’s employment were made in accordance with safeguarding protocols and legal advice. The school refrained from further comments as employment processes are ongoing.