Struggling ex-serviceman failed to deliver mail

A LERWICK postman who did not deliver more than 1,000 parcels and letters over a four-month period between September and January this year has escaped a jail sentence.

Lerwick Sheriff Court heard on Wednesday that Jason Easter, of the town’s Grodians, had been struggling with his job after having been a soldier for ten years, which included two tours of Afghanistan.

Procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie said that the 29 year old was clearly struggling with what he had seen there and needed help coping.

He said there was no suggestion that Easter did not deliver the post for personal gain.

The offence came to light when his van was taken to a local garage for repairs and staff there found a large amount of undelivered mail in the vehicle.

Sheriff Ian Cruickshank said that, while this was “a serious breach of trust”, it was clear to him that Easter was struggling with his employment.

He ordered him to carry out 120 hours of unpaid work as part of a community payback order. Easter was also put under supervision for a period of 12 months.