Richard Greenwood, a chemistry teacher at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh, was found guilty of assaulting a six-year-old boy by tying his wrists and ankles with cable ties. The incident occurred on August 23, 2023, at a private address in Edinburgh, not on school grounds or involving any pupil. Sheriff McCormack granted Greenwood an absolute discharge, meaning no sentence or formal criminal record.
Incident Details
The court heard that Greenwood, also known as Robin, used cable ties as part of a 'cops and robbers' game to distract the child, who had run onto a road and attempted to climb out of a window. Greenwood said he feared for the boy's safety and used the cable ties because toy handcuffs were missing. The child, now nine, was restrained for no more than two minutes before Greenwood cut the ties off, realizing the 'connotations' of the game.
Court Proceedings
Greenwood was found guilty of one count of assault after a trial at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on June 26, 2026. He was acquitted of a separate assault charge. Sheriff McCormack stated, 'It was a brief episode but a child cannot consent. This conduct of tying up a child was an assault, albeit a brief one with no lasting effect.' The sheriff acknowledged the potential impact on Greenwood's employment and income, granting an absolute discharge.
Teacher's Testimony
Greenwood told the court: 'I recall him being distressed on the evening. He opened the front door and ran onto the road towards the bus stop. I ran after him and returned to the house. I feared for his safety.' He added: 'Looking back on the cable tie incident I feel really stupid and naive.' When asked if there was any malice, he replied: 'Absolutely not.'
School's Response
A Merchiston Castle School spokesperson said: 'Merchiston Castle School notes today's court verdict. The case did not involve any pupils or any allegation connected to the school. The matter related entirely to circumstances outside any professional setting. When the school was made aware of the charges, it followed its safeguarding procedures and sought appropriate specialist advice. Decisions regarding Mr Greenwood's employment were made throughout in line with the school's safeguarding responsibilities, legal obligations and the advice received.'
Greenwood, 46, remains employed as lead teacher of chemistry at Merchiston Castle School, where boarding fees are nearly £17,000 per term. He informed his employers about the charge at the end of 2024.
