Brightons man threatened to kill former business partner over work dispute
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Gary Oliver, 48, 29 Waggon Road, sent texts and emails to the man in which he claimed to have been “watching” him and referenced the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF).
Oliver appeared at Falkirk Sheriff Court last Thursday having pleaded guilty to causing the man fear or alarm by repeatedly sending messages and emails that were threatening, abusive, offensive and menacing between June 15, 2019 and June 14, 2020.
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Hide AdOutlining the circumstances of the fallout between the businessmen, procurator fiscal depute Amy Sneddon said: “There are now ongoing disputes between the two.
“The complainer had contacted police due to the contact he was receiving from the accused and he provided police with messages which show 350 text messages between August 15 and May 2 from the accused’s phone number.
“Many appear to be threatening and abusive in nature. One message indicated the accused was at a pub nearby the complainer’s home address and was watching him.
“There was a further message on March 7 which stated, ‘I’m going to kill you on Monday’ and cross-referenced to the complainer being an ‘imbecile’.
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Hide Ad“In one message there was a reference to the UVF in Stirlingshire. He highlighted the majority of emails from the accused’s account were in relation to work matters, however, there were some that appeared to be threatening in nature.
“In addition, there were a number of emails: comments such as, ‘You’re dead on Monday’ and discussions regarding their ongoing disputes.
“The complainer advised police he didn’t respond to any texts or emails. On July 14, the accused was cautioned and charged and made no reply.”
Defence solicitor Simon Hutchison said: “If somebody was due me £75,000 to £100,000, I’d be a bit cross as well.”
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Hide AdThe court was told Oliver had two convictions for “Section 38 and speeding” offences.
His solicitor added: “It simply can’t be true the gentleman didn’t reply because lots of my client’s messages relate to the messages he’s had.
“The whole situation got exceedingly toxic. There have been no further issues and he has no intention of dealing with matters outwith civil courts.”
Oliver was fined £320 and ordered to pay a £20 victim surcharge within 28 days.