CHARLES CLYDESDALE SENTENCED IN FALKIRK FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST CHILD

At the High Court in Livingston, a significant and somber legal proceeding took place involving Charles Clydesdale, a man whose actions have left a lasting scar on a young victim. Judge Craig presided over the case and delivered a custodial sentence of two years to Clydesdale, reflecting the gravity of his crimes.

Charles Clydesdale, whose name is now publicly associated with this disturbing case, was found guilty of engaging in lewd and indecent practices directed towards a 10-year-old child when he was only 13 years old. The court's verdict was based on compelling evidence presented during the trial, which clearly demonstrated Clydesdale’s involvement in heinous acts against a vulnerable minor.

Following the conviction, Clydesdale was ordered to be registered on the sex offenders register, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his future activities. Additionally, he has been placed on the list of individuals deemed unsuitable to work with vulnerable groups, a step that underscores the seriousness with which the justice system views his actions.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Craig addressed Clydesdale directly, emphasizing the severity of his misconduct. The judge stated, “You were found guilty by a jury after trial of a charge of lewd, indecent and libidinous practices and behaviour towards a young victim – who was a complete stranger to you – and who was ten years old at the time. You were 13.”

The judge detailed the victim’s testimony, which the jury evidently accepted as truthful. The victim recounted how Clydesdale ingratiated himself into their life, effectively inviting himself into their home. The court heard that Clydesdale then engaged in sexual abuse under the guise of playing a game, a tactic that the victim did not fully understand at the time. The evidence indicated that this was not accidental contact but a calculated attempt by Clydesdale to manipulate and exploit the child.

The victim also testified that Clydesdale made sexual remarks, suggesting plans to meet again the following week for further abuse. Such evidence pointed towards an attempt to groom the young victim, a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior. The court noted that corroborating evidence linked Clydesdale’s actions to other concerning sexual behaviors towards different individuals, although these were not formally charged.

Judge Craig acknowledged that the jury must have accepted this additional evidence, which indicated a troubling pattern of sexual misconduct. The impact on the victim was described as profound and lifelong, with the victim providing clear and unwavering testimony about the abuse suffered.

While Clydesdale maintained his innocence, the court found the victim’s account credible and identified him as the perpetrator on multiple occasions. The CJSW report prepared for sentencing revealed that Clydesdale showed little remorse for his actions, although he denied the abuse ever took place. The report also noted that he is considered at low risk of reoffending sexually or otherwise.

In considering his background, the court acknowledged Clydesdale’s difficult childhood, which included traumatic losses such as the murder of his half-sister and the drowning death of another sister. These factors were not used to diminish the seriousness of his crimes but were taken into account during sentencing.

Ultimately, the court determined that the gravity of the offense—classified today as rape—necessitated a custodial sentence. The two-year term was backdated to the date of his remand on 22 November 2024. Clydesdale’s name will be added to the list of persons deemed unsuitable to work with vulnerable groups, and he will be subject to sex offender notification requirements for ten years. This sentence underscores the court’s recognition of the profound harm caused and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from such predatory behavior.