A teacher named Richard Greenwood, also known as Robin, has received an absolute discharge from a sheriff for tying a boy’s wrists and ankles with cable ties. The verdict came after Greenwood was found guilty of one count of assaulting a child but acquitted of a separate assault charge at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. This discharge means he will not face sentencing or have a criminal record as a consequence.
Greenwood, who works as the lead chemistry teacher at Merchiston Castle School, confirmed that he remains employed at the school and had informed them of the case when he was charged in late 2024. The incidents in question did not involve any students from the school and did not occur on school premises, according to reports from Edinburgh Live.
During the trial, it was revealed that the child, now nine years old, was restrained with cable ties at a residence in Edinburgh on August 23, 2023, when he was six years old. Greenwood defended his actions, claiming it was part of a game to distract and calm the child after he exhibited dangerous behavior by running into the road and attempting to climb out of a window.
Despite acknowledging the use of cable ties, Greenwood stated that it was a brief and harmless activity intended to divert the child’s attention. He emphasized that he quickly realized the implications and released the boy within minutes by cutting the ties with scissors. Greenwood expressed regret over the incident, admitting it was a mistake and that he never intended any harm.
Sheriff McCormack, before delivering the guilty verdict, highlighted that tying up a child without consent constitutes assault, even if brief and with no lasting effects. However, considering the impact a conviction could have on Greenwood’s career and finances, the sheriff granted him an absolute discharge.
Merchiston Castle School issued a statement in response to the court verdict, clarifying that the case did not involve any students or school-related allegations. They affirmed that appropriate safeguarding measures were followed upon learning of the charges, and decisions regarding Greenwood’s employment were made in adherence to safeguarding protocols and legal guidance. The school refrained from further comments on the matter pending ongoing employment processes.