A Turkish businessman who was banned from an Angus kebab shop after a lengthy homophobic hate campaign against a male relative has been made the subject of a two-year non-harassment order.
Mahir Eroglu was also fined £1,000 after appearing for sentence before Sheriff Gregor Murray at Forfar following a plea of guilty to the stalking charge which covered a period of almost 24 months up to April this year.
The 45-year-old, of Peterhead had threatened to harm the Best Kebab business in Arbroath’s West Port as part of the campaign of abusive calls and text messages which began in March 2018.
The course of conduct also included threats of violence.
Eroglu initially told the court he had committed the offence because of the “bad manners” of his victim.
Defence solicitor Nick Markowski said a “very positive” background report on the accused was before the court.
“He has been in Scotland for a significant amount of time, has never been in trouble and has a strong work ethic,” said Mr Markowski.
“He is embarrassed, ashamed and apologetic and it does appear to be isolated behaviour for him. He wishes to apologise publicly to the court.”
Sheriff Murray said the social work report revealed the accused’s work and family situation would mean that completing unpaid work would take a considerable length of time.
The sheriff also noted the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on unpaid work placements being available to the court.
“However, the fine I will impose reflects the very serious nature of the offence, and also your income,” he said.
The 24-month non-harrassment order prevents Eroglu from making any contact with his victim and another man.
