ALAN ROSS OF GLENROTHES SENTENCED FOR HISTORICAL CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN LIVINGSTON

A man from Glenrothes, Alan Ross, aged 35, has been sentenced to five years in prison following his conviction for the historical sexual abuse of two young boys in Fife. The case was heard at the High Court in Livingston, where Ross was found guilty of two charges of lewd and libidinous behaviour and one count of sexual assault. In addition to his prison sentence, Ross's name has been officially added to the sex offenders register, and his conviction has been formally notified to Scottish ministers under the protections provided by vulnerable groups legislation.

During the sentencing hearing, solicitor advocate Iain Paterson highlighted that Ross was himself a child at the time of the offences, which occurred when he was between 12 and 16 years old. Paterson emphasized that Ross's upbringing was reportedly challenging, but he has since contributed positively to society as an adult. He pointed out that Ross has no prior convictions apart from this case and that he maintains the support of his partner, who continues to stand by him.

Judge Lord Kinclaven acknowledged that certain mitigating factors influenced the court's decision to exercise leniency. He explained that Ross's status as a juvenile at the time of the offences was a significant consideration. The judge noted, “You have mitigation due to what was disclosed in the criminal justice social work report as your ‘chaotic childhood,’ and the offences took place a long time ago, before 2001.”

Furthermore, the judge recognized Ross's efforts to lead a pro-social life, his supportive partner, and his involvement in charity work, which collectively contributed to the court's decision. However, Judge Kinclaven also addressed the impact on the victims, stating, “The complainants gave evidence that they had been threatened with violence, but they were not actually harmed physically.” He referenced a victim impact statement from the second complainant, describing the emotional and physical toll of the abuse, including depression, anxiety, nightmares, and difficulties in maintaining employment.

He concluded by noting that the jury had rejected Ross's defence and found him guilty beyond reasonable doubt on all three charges. Ultimately, the court determined that a custodial sentence was the appropriate course of action given the circumstances.