A man who intentionally ran over his estranged wife with his van and threatened to set her on fire has been sentenced to eight years in prison. Alan Johnston, 62, was described as a «calculating and controlling domestic abuser» by a senior prosecutor. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) stated that Johnston, from Laurencekirk in Aberdeenshire, became increasingly abusive towards the woman as he exerted control over her during their relationship. He limited her internet access, determined which rooms she could enter in their home, and poured water from a kettle over her head. The High Court in Dundee also heard that he tried to prevent the sale of their property and stalked her from his parked vehicle while revving the engine. Johnston’s abusive behavior, which according to COPFS spanned nearly four years, reached a climax when he hit the woman with a van on March 4, 2024. Witness testimony from the trial revealed that he then attacked the injured victim and threatened to set her on fire with petrol.
Judge Lord Ericht remarked, «While in the process of divorcing, you tried to kill your wife with your car. When that failed, you pursued her, threatening to set her on fire.» Johnston was recently found guilty of three charges after a trial at the High Court in Dundee. He was convicted of abusive conduct towards an ex-partner; assault causing injury and endangering life, and attempted murder; and violating a civil domestic abuse interdict – which the victim had obtained to protect herself from her estranged husband. Johnston was given a 10-year extended sentence at the High Court in Edinburgh on Tuesday, with eight years in prison and two years on license upon release into the community. He was also prohibited from contacting his victim.
Moira Orr, who oversees homicide and major crime for COPFS, stated, «Alan Johnston is a calculating and controlling domestic abuser whose actions could have had catastrophic consequences. Prosecutors were able to demonstrate a pattern of abusive behavior that culminated in his attempt to kill his estranged wife with a vehicle. Johnston has now been held accountable through this prosecution, sending a clear message to those who engage in this type of misconduct. No one should have to live in fear of a partner or ex-partner, and I encourage anyone affected to consider reporting their experience when they feel ready, able, and safe to do so. You will receive a listening ear and support from our trauma-informed staff as we utilize all available resources to pursue justice.»
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