THE Eastleigh man known as “The Naked Rambler” is back in prison in Scotland despite a judge telling him that, unless he changed his ways, he would be destined to spend his life in jail.
Sheriff Lindsay Foulis told Stephen Gough, 50, that, if he did not accept the offer, in return for wearing clothes, of being allowed to go back to his “warmer” home, he would continue to be arrested.
“When the day comes for you to be released, you will be apprehended and the same process gone through again.
“If I impose a custodial sentence, that is a scenario which is likely to arise again and again and again.”
Gough, conducting his own defence while completely naked, said he understood the consequences of his actions, but told the court it was about “individual freedom”.
The sheriff remanded Gough in custody and warned him that he could be jailed for upwards of 18 months.
He also said that when it came to sentencing the father of two, he would consider if Gough being naked in court broke contempt laws.
Gough first hit the headlines in 2003 when he was arrested 15 times during a naked ramble across Britain The former Royal Marine was arrested four years ago after stripping off on a flight to Edinburgh and, since then, he has spent most of his time in Scottish jails, refusing to wear prison uniform or put clothes on for court appearances.
He was released from Perth prison on December 17, but he refused to put clothes on and was immediately arrested and subsequently found guilty of causing a breach of the peace.
What do you think? Should he be free to walk naked? Leave your comments below.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel