Cases

Photographer who sexually assaulted models jailed

A photographer groomed young women into taking part in modelling shoots in order to sexually assault them, a jury has found. 

Simon Scott, 44, from Aberdeen, was today jailed for 20 months after being found guilty of offences against five victims. 

Scott – known as ‘Sid’ – targeted the victims on social media, offering free photography sessions. 

A jury at Aberdeen Sheriff Court heard that Scott induced and manipulated some of the victims into removing items of clothing or changing into revealing outfits.    

Prosecutors from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) led evidence that Scott sexually assaulted the young women – most of whom were teenagers – while pretending to be taking photos or adjusting their poses. 

Returning to court for sentencing today, Scott was given a 20 month sentence. 

His name was added to the sex offenders register for 10 years. 

Alison McKenzie, Procurator Fiscal for Grampian, Highland and Islands, said:  

“Simon Scott callously manipulated girls and young women for his own shameful purposes.  

“The victims who agreed to photo shoots believed he was a professional they could trust. He was far from that.

“I commend all the victims who came forward to report their experiences.  Their courage in doing so has helped us put an end to this man’s offending. 

Alison McKenzie, Procurator Fiscal for Grampian, Highland and Islands

“I would also urge any other victims of similar offending to speak out.  COPFS will do everything in our power to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.”