Keir Johnston, who gained fame when a dress worn by his mother-in-law went viral for its unusual colour properties, has reportedly appeared in court facing charges of attempted murder against his wife.
Viral dress harbours haunting backstory: Here’s what you must know
The case has unveiled a disturbing narrative of alleged domestic violence and coercive control spanning almost 11 years, per The Guardian.
Here is a detailed overview of the charges against Johnston and the harrowing incidents that unfolded within the couple’s relationship, which, all things considered, casts a dark tint on the dress that, once upon a time, had social media in a frenzy.
Allegations of Domestic Violence and Coercive Control
Keir Johnston, a 38-year-old man from the Isle of Colonsay in Scotland, stands accused of perpetrating a long-term campaign of serious domestic violence against his wife, culminating in an attempted murder.
The charges span a period from April 2019 to March 2022 and include acts of physical assault, verbal abuse, threats, and controlling behaviour.
Specific Incidents of Abuse
According to reports, Johnston is alleged to have repeatedly assaulted his wife, including pushing her against a wall, shouting at her, and throttling her.
The charges also include instances of attempted entry into a vehicle and striking his wife through an open window. It is further claimed that he placed her in a headlock and forcibly dragged her from a pub.
Prosecutors assert that Johnston isolated his wife from her friends, monitored her movements, and controlled her finances.
The Viral Dress and Johnston’s Media Appearances
Johnston gained public attention when his mother-in-law’s dress became an internet sensation in 2015.
Dubbed ‘The Dress That Broke the Internet,’ its colour sparked a social media debate. Johnston’s subsequent media appearances, including an appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, thrust him into the limelight.
Attempted Murder Charges
Prosecutors contend that Johnston’s pattern of violence escalated to a horrific extent, leading to the charge of attempted murder.
On 6 March 2022, he allegedly pinned his wife to the ground, repeatedly placing his hands around her neck, and threatening her life. It is claimed that he brandished a knife during this ordeal, causing injury and endangering her life.
Legal Proceedings
Keir Johnston appeared at Glasgow High Court on Monday, 10 July 2023, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The case was postponed for a further preliminary hearing before the trial, scheduled for 2024.
