Former golf club youth convener had 33 indecent images of children


Former golf club youth convener had 33 indecent images of children

A golf club youth convener has admitted possession of indecent images of children.

Donal Ferrie, of Waverley, Onslow Road, Clydebank, pleaded guilty at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last week to taking or permitting to be taken the 33 images, two of which were at category B and 31 at the lowest category C.

He also admitted possession of the images between February 4 and 8, 2017.

The 53-year-old, who has no previous convictions, was investigated after police got information an indecent image had been uploaded.

The IP address was attributed to Ferrie’s home address, then in Alclutha Avenue, Dumbarton, and Dumbarton Golf Club, where “he had a position as junior convener”.

A search warrant served last June 26 retrieved mobile phones including a Samsung Galaxy S8 which was found to have a number of images.

The pictures depicted children aged around seven to 13 years old and appeared to be screen shots. Their source could not be determined, heard the court.

Fiscal depute Kevin Doherty said: “There was no evidence to suggest he had been sharing or otherwise distributing.”

When he was arrested, Ferrie told police: “I’m not a criminal.”

Sheriff Simon Pender ordered a report from social workers, a psychological report and a restriction of liberty assessment.

Ferrie was put on the sex offenders register and the length of time he will be on it will be determined at his sentencing on April 18.

The Post understands Ferrie ceased to be involved with Dumbarton Golf Club as soon as they were made aware of his arrest. They referred themselves to Disclosure Scotland, highlighting his former position and role at the club.