David McCann, the 43-year-old editor of The Times and The Sunday Times in Scotland, faces charges related to indecent online communications after police arrested him in Edinburgh. The arrest followed a search of his flat on November 25, 2025, and has led to his suspension from News UK amid a growing spotlight on media professionals and online behavior.
This case has drawn attention due to McCann’s recent promotion to editor in August 2025, just months before the incident. Authorities acted swiftly, highlighting concerns over digital misconduct in high-profile roles.
Career Path of David McCann
McCann built a solid reputation in Scottish journalism over more than a decade. He started at the Edinburgh Evening News in various roles, then moved to the Daily Record as assistant news editor.
Later, he served as head of news and assistant editor at the Herald. In 2018, he joined The Times as news editor and rose to deputy editor the next year.
His appointment as editor came after Magnus Llewellin stepped down, marking a key milestone in his career. Colleagues described him as dedicated and insightful, often focusing on Scottish politics and current events.
This background adds context to the shock within the industry, as McCann had been seen as a rising star.
Details of the Police Investigation
Police Scotland executed a search warrant at McCann’s Edinburgh property on November 25, 2025. Officers arrested him on the spot, linking the action to reports of indecent online communications.
The investigation appears to stem from digital exchanges that raised red flags. While specifics remain limited due to ongoing legal proceedings, sources indicate the communications involved threatening or abusive elements.
McCann spent a night in custody before his court appearances. This swift response reflects heightened scrutiny on online behavior, especially amid rising cases of digital harassment in the UK.
In recent years, similar probes have increased, with Police Scotland handling over 1,200 reports of online abuse in 2024 alone, according to official statistics.
The case underscores how quickly personal actions can intersect with professional lives in the digital age.
Court Proceedings and Charges
McCann appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on November 26, 2025, but entered no plea at that time. He faced charges under section 38(1) of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010 for threatening or abusive behavior.
The following day, on November 27, he returned to court and received bail. Conditions of his release include restrictions on certain activities, though details are not public.
Legal experts note this charge carries potential penalties of up to 12 months in prison or fines, depending on the case severity. The prosecution must prove intent to cause fear or alarm.
Court records show the case is set for further hearings in early 2026. This timeline allows both sides to prepare evidence, including digital records from the search.
Response from News UK and Colleagues
News UK, the parent company of The Times and The Sunday Times, acted quickly by suspending McCann. A spokesperson stated the investigation is unrelated to his work, emphasizing they would not comment further.
This move aims to protect the newspapers’ integrity during the legal process. Insiders report the newsroom is handling the fallout, with interim leadership stepping in.
Colleagues expressed surprise, noting McCann’s professional demeanor. Some in the industry have called for better support systems to address personal challenges faced by journalists.
The suspension highlights how media organizations must balance employee rights with public trust.
Broader Implications for Media Ethics
This incident raises questions about accountability in journalism. With social media’s role in news, personal online actions can impact professional reputations.
Recent data from the National Union of Journalists shows a 15 percent rise in ethics-related complaints against media figures in 2025. This trend points to the need for clearer guidelines on digital conduct.
Experts suggest training programs could help prevent such issues. The case also ties into wider discussions on online safety, especially after the UK’s Online Safety Act took effect in 2024.
- Increased focus on digital literacy for professionals.
- Calls for anonymous reporting channels in workplaces.
- Potential reviews of hiring processes to include background checks on online behavior.
Related Cases and Trends in Scotland
Scotland has seen several high-profile cases involving online misconduct recently. These incidents often involve public figures and highlight gaps in current laws.
For instance, a gangster was jailed for a machete attack in Edinburgh just days before McCann’s arrest, showing the city’s active law enforcement scene. Another case involved a gunman in a gang feud, underscoring broader crime trends.
| Case | Date | Details | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machete Attack | December 2025 | Gangster assaulted businessman in Edinburgh | Jailed for severe injury |
| Gunshot Incident | December 2025 | Shots fired at house in Niddrie | Guilty plea, sentencing pending |
| Online Abuse Probe | November 2025 | Media figure charged with indecent communications | Bail granted, ongoing |
These examples illustrate a pattern of swift police action. Analysts predict more regulations on online interactions in 2026, driven by public demand for safer digital spaces.
The McCann case could influence how media outlets handle similar situations moving forward.
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