Online comments warning as brother appears in court accused of killing Scottish teenager
Connor Gibson faces charges in connection with the death of Amber Gibson
As the brother of Hamilton teenger Amber Gibson prepares to appear in court charged with her death a top Glasgow lawyer is firing a warning about the risks of commenting on the case online.
19-year-old Connor Gibson was arrested on Wednesday night and is due to make a first appearance at Hamilton Sheriff Court today (Friday).
16-year-old Amber was reported missing last Friday night and her body was found in Cadzow Glen Park on Sunday morning.
Think carefully before posting online comments
There has been a shocked reaction within the local community with many people posting tributes and comments on social media, but lawyer David McKie from Levy & McRae in Glasgow is telling Tay FM News there's a risk you could be in court if you post an opinion which breaks the rules on Contempt of Court.
"Once a case goes into court it goes 'live' and it's very important for everyone - not just the media - but also members of the public to respect the integrity of the court process." he says.
"Anything written online, printed or broadcast could unduly influence or prejudice the case.
"Always remember when you're using social media that anything you say can be screenshot and brought to the attention of the authorities and the court.
"You can't unsay it once it's been said.
"So think very carefully when there's a live court case or police investigation going on, because anything you say could get you into serious trouble."