Derek Pearson convicted of culpable homicide following a drunken altercation.

A man has been sentenced to seven years in prison after delivering a fatal punch that resulted in the death of a father in Aberdeen. Derek Pearson, 47, was convicted of culpable homicide for the incident that occurred outside a city center pub on March 12, 2023.

The victim, Steven Johnson, a father of seven, fell and struck his head on the pavement after being punched, leading to his tragic death two days later.

The incident and its aftermath

The jury at the High Court in Aberdeen found Pearson guilty by majority verdict.

The court heard that Pearson had been drinking at the Scottish Embassy bar with his ex-partner, Kathleen Cunningham, when he became enraged after seeing her conversing with Johnson. This jealousy led to a confrontation outside the pub, where Pearson pinned Johnson against a wall and struck him, resulting in a single blow that proved fatal.

Eyewitnesses described the scene, noting that Johnson lay unconscious on the ground following the altercation. CCTV footage presented during the trial showed the moments leading up to the incident, highlighting the escalating tensions. Johnson, who had just celebrated his 50th birthday, succumbed to his injuries at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary on March 14, 2023.

Family’s emotional response

During the sentencing, Judge Graham Buchanan addressed the court, emphasizing the tragic nature of the incident. As Pearson received his sentence, Johnson’s family expressed their anger and grief, calling out “scum” in the courtroom. They released a statement reflecting their pain, stating, “Seven years in prison is nowhere near the life sentence that Pearson has imposed on us.” The family highlighted the emotional toll of losing their loved one and the ongoing struggle to cope with the aftermath of the violence.

Legal implications and societal impact

The case has drawn attention to the severe consequences of violence, particularly stemming from a single act. Moira Orr, who oversees homicide cases for the Crown Office, remarked on the devastating impact of Pearson’s actions, noting that many lives have been altered forever due to this senseless act of violence. She reiterated the importance of holding individuals accountable for such offenses, emphasizing the need for community safety.

As society grapples with issues of violence and public safety, this case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked anger and aggression. The legal system’s response aims to deter similar incidents and promote a culture of accountability, ensuring that communities can feel secure.