In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Michael Mollins, then 46, of Kemnay, was sentenced to 15 months in prison at Aberdeen Sheriff Court. Mollins, a former office manager, admitted to spying on two teenage girls using secret cameras hidden in their bedrooms over a three-month period.
The investigation established that in July 2024, one of the girls discovered a small camera with a flashing light hidden on top of a cupboard. A further search revealed a second spy camera hidden on a shelf in the second teenager’s room. When confronted by the girls’ mother, Mollins repeatedly apologised, stating he “knew how bad it looked.”
Digital Evidence and Depravity
Police arrested Mollins after the teenagers disclosed the events to another adult. Forensic examination of seized laptops, phones, SD cards, and hard drives uncovered:
- Intimate Footage: Video recordings of the teenagers in their bedrooms.
- Photographic Evidence: Nearly 350 still photographs of the girls in states of undress.
- Indecent Images: Five specific indecent images of children derived from the footage.
The court reported that Mollins committed these “depraved” acts for his own “selfish desires.” His solicitor described the behaviour as “disgusting” and stated that Mollins was “thoroughly ashamed” of destroying his life through his “dreadful” offences.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his crimes in Aberdeenshire, Michael Mollins was handed the following:
- Custodial Sentence: 15 months in immediate custody.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were imposed as a result of his conviction.
- Judicial Remarks: Sheriff Ian Wallace emphasised that Mollins had committed a “significant breach of trust” that caused “great harm,” making prison the only appropriate option.
Following the sentencing, a person close to the victims’ family reported that 15 months was “not enough” for the pain Mollins had put them through.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Mollins is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Police Scotland. His history of using hidden technology to violate the privacy of children in their own homes means his status remains under “critical” scrutiny.
As a registered sex offender, Mollins must comply with strict notification requirements regarding his address and digital devices. Police Scotland states that they will monitor him closely upon his eventual release. Any breach of his registration conditions or any attempt to access recording equipment without authorisation will result in his immediate return to Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.