The mid-17th century was a turbulent era for many in Scotland, and Donald McChereich of Currell, Sutherland, found himself caught up in the fervour of witch trials, a pursuit that has marked this period in history with fear and suspicion. Historical records from 1655 indicate that Donald was listed on a "fugitive list," as documented by Christina Larner in her revered 'Source-book on Scottish Witch Trials.' The details of Donald’s case, under the classification of JC17/1, are elusive, and the outcome of his trial remains unrecorded, suggesting that he may have managed to evade capture or fled before his case could be resolved.
Although not much is documented about the specifics of Donald’s charges or the nature of the accusations against him, being termed a 'fugitive from the circuit court' strongly implies that he was unable or unwilling to submit to judicial proceedings that might have awaited him. The lack of a recorded outcome leaves his fate shrouded in mystery, a common plight for many during the witch trials in Scotland where fear often overshadowed the pursuit of fair justice. This case remains a poignant reminder of the many lives indelibly marked by the witch hunts, their stories lingering in the shadows of history.