Gay Marc arrested for calling police officer a p**f

Apr 13 2008 By Lynn Mcpherson

Exclusive Couple Say Officer Launched Vendetta

A GAY man has been accused of homophobic breach of the peace - for allegedly calling an ex-police officer a p**f.

Marc Sneddon, 38, clashed with former detective Stephen Whelehan while walking their dogs.

He was charged and his partner Graham Spence - a police IT worker - was later arrested over claims he also shouted homophobic abuse on another occasion.

The couple deny the claims and say neighbour Whelehan and his parents, James and Bridget, launched a vendetta of malicious complaints about them.

Graham, 40, said: "His dog attacked ours. Marc asked him to put it on a lead and got a torrent of abuse.

"Whelehan started calling him a 'wee f*****g p*****r'.

"Marc was provoked and asked whether he had a problem with his sexuality and did his wife know he was in the closet.

"Marc reported it to police but we were stunned when HE was charged.

"There were no witnesses but Whelehan's mother claimed she had been there.

"I was held for allegedly shouting abuse but the fiscal didn't take it further."

Marc, of Baillieston, Glasgow, faces trial this month over the row.

But he hopes the charges will be dropped following a probe by Detective Chief Inspector Louise Raphael.

She viewed video footage the couple shot that they say proves they were harassed.

Graham said: "She said she had submitted a report to the procurator fiscal recommending the Whelehans be charged and the case against Marc dropped."

Whelehan, who quit the force seven months ago, said: "This started because those gay guys fancy me.

"Sneddon kicked my dog and called me a p**f in front of witnesses. This alleged video must be doctored."

Strathclyde Police said: "Complaints were made against a former officer which were investigated and where appropriate reported to the procurator fiscal."

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