ALEXANDER HAMILTON FROM COATBRIDGE AND KIRKWOOD SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

In a case that has shocked the communities of Coatbridge and Kirkwood, Alexander Hamilton, a 56-year-old forklift driver, was convicted of serious sexual offenses involving two young girls he was entrusted to care for as a babysitter. The incidents took place over a span of several years, specifically between 2007 and 2010, and the repercussions of his actions have left lasting scars on his victims.

The case came to light after one of Hamilton’s victims, a girl aged 10 at the time, was so distressed that she broke down crying in her school classroom. She confided in her teacher that Hamilton had been touching her inappropriately, which prompted an investigation by the authorities. This revelation was a pivotal moment that led to Hamilton’s arrest and subsequent trial.

The court proceedings revealed that Hamilton, who resided at a house in Greenend during the time of the offenses, was initially suspected after neighbors expressed concern about his behavior. The police investigation uncovered that Hamilton had committed these acts against two girls, aged 10 and 12, whom he was babysitting. Despite being accused of multiple offenses, Hamilton was cleared of attempting to rape one of the victims, but he admitted to the sexual abuse.

Further disturbing details emerged when it was revealed that in 2011, a DVD circulated among certain circles, on which Hamilton had superimposed the faces of his two victims. Although the images on the DVD were not indecent, they caused significant emotional distress to the victims. The court heard that one of the girls had attempted to take her own life and was now receiving counseling from the Moira Anderson Foundation, an organization based in Airdrie that provides support to survivors of childhood sexual abuse. The other victim’s behavior had also changed dramatically, becoming moody and withdrawn, indicating the profound impact of Hamilton’s actions.

During the sentencing, Lord Bracadale emphasized that the only appropriate punishment was imprisonment. Hamilton’s defense argued that his alcohol consumption at the time of the offenses impaired his memory and judgment. His lawyer, Louise Arrol, stated that Hamilton had the full support of his family and that he was eager to rebuild his life after serving his sentence. She also mentioned that Hamilton had resigned from his employment and was hopeful of re-employment upon release. Additionally, his house had been auctioned to help settle his significant debts, which had contributed to his financial difficulties.

Hamilton was sentenced to four and a half years in prison, and he was released from custody on January 6, 2016. The case has left a lasting impact on the victims and the communities of Coatbridge and Kirkwood, highlighting the importance of vigilance and support for victims of childhood sexual abuse.