DISRESPECT FOR THE DEAD

Shocked mourners hit out after they find convicted wife abuser Pittams helping at funerals

- RORY CASSIDY

A SHAMED police sergeant who terrorised three women over a 26-year period is now working as an undertaker.

Mourners have been left horrified that Iain Pittams has had a hands-on role in the funerals of their loved ones.

One said they were left shaken after arriving at a relative's service to find Pittams driving the hearse, carrying the coffin and handing out cords at the graveside.

He is employed by funeral homes and funeral services.

company Dignity PLC, which boasts on its website it only hires "caring individuals" with "compassion" and "respect".

The 54-year-old secured the job at the firm's base in Kilmarnock, after having to quit the force when he was exposed as a multiple wife beater.

Pittams carried out a catalogue of physical and emotional abuse on two wives and a long-term girlfriend over more than 20 years.

He threw a cutlery drawer at one victim because it was dirty, and lashed out at another when he couldn't find a pair of socks while they were on holiday.

He assaulted and abused his victims after joining the force, getting into a relationship with one, and marrying her after investigating her stalking at the hands of her ex.

At Kilmarnock Sheriff Court in 2018, Pittams, then of Hamilton, was spared jail for the offences.

He dodged disciplinary action by resigning before the court case came to an end.