In 2025, the Offender Database reported that Ryan McKenzie, 40, of Commercial Road, Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire, was fined at Aberdeen Sheriff Court for distributing obscene material. McKenzie admitted to sending a video clip featuring a fish carcass being used sexually on a woman to a friend via WhatsApp.
The investigation began when Police Scotland discovered the clip while searching another man’s mobile device in relation to an unrelated matter. Officers traced the video back to McKenzie, who sent it on 22 January 2023. When questioned by police on 30 October 2024, McKenzie made a full admission, stating he had sent it “as a joke” to his friends.
“Unfortunate Error” and Legal Classification
The court heard that McKenzie was previously unaware that sharing such material was classed as obscene under the law. His defence solicitor, Iain Hingston, described the incident as a “one-off” and characterised McKenzie as a “decent man” who had made an unfortunate error.
The solicitor argued that the conviction would have “astronomical” consequences for McKenzie, particularly regarding his requirement to apply for international work visas. Despite a plea for an absolute discharge, the court held that the material was “unpleasant” and a criminal offence had been committed.
Sentence and Financial Penalty
For his actions in Oldmeldrum, Ryan McKenzie was:
- Fined the sum of £155.
- Ordered to pay the full amount within 28 days.
- Convicted of a single charge of distributing obscene material.
The court reported that while the defendant did not view the material as a “fetish,” the distribution of such content via messaging apps like WhatsApp remains a punishable offence under Scottish law.
Monitoring and Public Protection
While this specific offence did not result in a custodial sentence or placement on the Sex Offenders Register, Police Scotland emphasises that digital footprints are permanent and can be uncovered during unrelated investigations.
Offenders in Aberdeenshire are reminded that the “jokes” shared in private group chats can lead to “serious” legal consequences and impact future employment and travel. Police Scotland continues to monitor digital communications to identify the spread of obscene or illegal imagery within the community.
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