Five more charged after 'violent' protests outside paedophile's home in Moray

Five more people have been charged in connection with a series of violent protests outside a paedophile’s home in Moray.

Locals have been holding demonstrations outside Steven Wishart’s address in the Well Road area of Buckie since Sunday, calling for his removal.

Police were guarding the property throughout the gatherings. A call was put out on social media for crowds to gather outside the property, which then descended into “violent disorder”.

Specialist officers in riot gear were called in to help after items, including fireworks and flares, were thrown and police vehicles were vandalised.

Two women, aged 63 and 37, a 36-year-old man and a 16-year-old male youth have been arrested and charged in connection.

A female youth has also been charged, and was released on an undertaking to appear in court at a later date.

It comes after a 45-year-old man was previously arrested and charged in connection with the disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.

He is expected to appear at Elgin Sheriff Court on Thursday.

Protests were held outside Steven Wishart's address — Protests were held outside Steven Wishart’s address Jasper Image

Chief Inspector Mike McKenzie said: “Our enquiries into this incident are ongoing and we are continuing to review extensive footage to identify all those responsible.

“This was a significant and wholly unacceptable incident of violent disorder which posed a serious risk to officers and the wider community. This type of behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will take action against anyone involved.

“Additional patrols remain in place and we continue to work closely with our partners to address any concerns within the community.”