COLIN MACDONALD SENTENCED IN GLASGOW AND WAKEFIELD FOR ABUSE OF DEAF CHILDREN

In a landmark case that has shocked communities across Scotland and England, Colin Macdonald, a climbing instructor with ties to Glasgow and Wakefield, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against ten deaf boys over a span of more than three decades.

The court proceedings took place at the High Court in Edinburgh, where Macdonald’s crimes, which date back to the years between 1973 and 1981, were laid bare. The victims, some of whom bravely chose to waive their anonymity, expressed their relief and satisfaction at the severity of the sentence handed down. Among them was Joseph, who communicated his feelings through a sign language interpreter, stating, “I feel ecstatic. I hope he goes to Hell.”

Another victim, James, shared his reaction, saying, “I expected seven or eight years — to hear 12 years was fantastic.” George Drinnan, a 45-year-old from London, was the first to come forward with allegations against Macdonald and believes that the number of victims could be well over 100. He expressed his strong feelings about the case, stating, “I am very, very happy. He deserved it. I hope he dies in prison.”

Macdonald, who is himself deaf, was convicted of multiple counts of molestation involving boys in his care at various locations across the Highlands and Western Isles, including Glasgow, Glendoll in Sutherland, Mallaig, Glencoe, Aviemore, and the islands of Rum and Harris. His youngest victim was only 10 years old, while the oldest was 15.

The defendant’s criminal activities spanned several years, during which he took advantage of his position as a climbing and skiing instructor to target vulnerable children during trips to scenic spots and remote locations. His predatory behavior was finally uncovered after two of his victims, many years later, exchanged text messages and reported the incidents to the police. Macdonald’s subsequent arrest and investigation revealed the extent of his abuse.

During the sentencing, Judge Lord Malcolm condemned Macdonald’s actions, stating, “You sexually abused and assaulted vulnerable deaf children who were entrusted to your care. You have refused to accept full responsibility for your disgraceful assaults upon them and even tried to blame some of your victims.”

Macdonald, who was residing in Wakefield, Yorkshire at the time of sentencing but originally hails from Glasgow, was also ordered to register as a sex offender. The court’s decision was met with applause from victims and their families, who expressed their relief and justice served. Macdonald’s crimes have left a lasting scar on the victims, and the sentence aims to serve as a warning to others who might exploit positions of trust for personal gain.