A teacher who restrained a child by tying his wrists and ankles with cable ties has been discharged without penalty by a sheriff.
Richard Greenwood, also known as Robin, was convicted on one count of assaulting a child after a trial at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. The 46-year-old was acquitted of another assault charge and received an absolute discharge for the guilty verdict, meaning no formal sentence or criminal record will be imposed.
Greenwood, a chemistry lead teacher at Merchiston Castle School, informed the school about the case when he was charged in late 2024. The incidents did not involve any students at the school or occur on school premises, as reported by Edinburgh Live.
During the trial, it was revealed that the child, now nine years old, was restrained with cable ties at a residence in Edinburgh on August 23, 2023, when he was six years old.
Greenwood claimed that he used the cable ties as part of a game to distract and calm the child after the child’s risky behavior. He emphasized that it was meant to be a playful interaction and not intended to cause harm.
Despite the explanation provided by Greenwood, the court found the act of restraining the child with cable ties to be an assault due to the child’s inability to consent. However, the sheriff recognized that the incident was brief with no long-term effects and decided to grant Greenwood an absolute discharge considering the impact a conviction would have on his job and income.
Merchiston Castle School issued a statement acknowledging the court’s decision and clarified that the incident did not involve any students or school-related matters. The school followed safeguarding procedures upon learning about the charges and made decisions regarding Greenwood’s employment in accordance with their responsibilities and legal obligations.
As the employment situation is ongoing, the school refrained from making further comments on the matter.
