Man continued to assault unconscious woman at Elgin property as police dragged him off

A man who continued to assault an unconscious woman while police tried to forcibly stop him has been jailed for attempted murder.

David Cairney from Moray admitted assaulting the woman to her severe injury, permanent disfigurement, permanent impairment and to the danger of her life at a property in Elgin on February 15, 2022.

The 34-year-old struck his victim on the body with a skateboard during the attack which was seen by two men who climbed out of a window at the property while calling the police.

When officers arrived, Cairney was sitting on top of the unconscious woman, repeatedly punching her to the head and hitting it off the ground.

He continued to assault his victim until officers were able to forcibly remove him.

The woman suffered a number of life-threatening injuries to her face and neck and will suffer long-term impairments as a consequence.

Cairney pleaded guilty to the attempted murder charge at the High Court in Glasgow and was given a 13-and-a-half-year extended sentence, with ten years and six months to be served in custody.

A non-harassment order, banning him from contacting or attempting to contact his victim, was granted for an indefinite period.

Moira Orr, who leads on homicide and major crime for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, said:   “David Cairney showed a callous disregard for the safety and wellbeing of his then partner.

“Our thoughts and best wishes remain with her as she continues to deal with the lasting trauma caused by this violent individual.

“Cairney will now have to face the consequences of his wicked actions.

“COPFS remains committed to prosecuting crimes of violence and domestic abuse, which are an unacceptable blight on our communities.

“I would encourage all victims or witnesses of similar offending to come forward, report their experiences and seek support.” 