CRAIG MIDDLETON SHOCKINGLY NEGLECTS CHILDREN IN DUNDEE FLAT FILLED WITH FLY-INFESTED MESS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Dundee, Craig Middleton found himself at the center of a serious neglect investigation that revealed appalling living conditions and a blatant disregard for the wellbeing of three young children. The incident unfolded when police responded to a disturbance call at Middleton’s residence, a flat in Dundee, where they encountered a scene that was both distressing and alarming.

When officers arrived at the property, Middleton was hesitant to open the door, displaying obvious reluctance to cooperate. Upon gaining entry, the police were met with a foul and overpowering smell that permeated the flat, which was cluttered with an overwhelming amount of mess. The scene was characterized by the presence of soiled nappies, urine, and human excrement scattered throughout the living space, indicating a severe level of neglect and poor hygiene.

During the subsequent court proceedings, Middleton, who is a resident of Dundee, pleaded guilty to charges of neglecting his three children and exposing them to dangerous health risks. The court heard that on August 20, 2023, Middleton admitted to the allegations, which detailed his failure to provide adequate clothing, proper bathing, and sufficient nutrition for the children. The conditions inside the flat were described as deplorable, with rotten waste, mold, and filth covering various surfaces, creating an environment that was hazardous and unfit for children.

The case was brought to light after an anonymous complaint was made to authorities, reporting shouting and possible neglect at the address. Fiscal depute Carrie-Anne Mackenzie explained that when police arrived, Middleton was initially uncooperative, answering the door with evident reluctance. She noted that officers detected a strong, unpleasant odor and observed numerous flies swarming the rooms, further indicating the unsanitary conditions.

Middleton attempted to justify the state of the flat by claiming it was due to spilled milk, describing the mess as a result of a 'lazy day.' However, the court found that his explanations did little to mitigate the severity of the neglect. The evidence presented confirmed that Middleton had wilfully failed in his responsibilities as a caregiver, neglecting to properly clothe and bathe the children, and providing them with inadequate food. The environment they were subjected to was described as one where rotten waste, mold, and human waste were prevalent, posing serious health risks.

During sentencing, Middleton’s solicitor, David Duncan, acknowledged his client’s recognition of the grave errors committed and suggested that Middleton was under significant pressures at the time. Duncan argued that there were realistic alternatives to imprisonment that could serve as a form of punishment and rehabilitation.

In his remarks, Sheriff Tim Niven-Smith acknowledged Middleton’s insight and remorse, opting to give him a chance to make amends through community service. Middleton, aged 37, was ordered to complete 133 hours of unpaid work as a proportionate punishment for his actions. The sheriff issued a stern warning that failure to fulfill this community service obligation would result in a custodial sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of the neglect and the importance of accountability.

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about child neglect and the importance of community vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from harm, especially in cases where living conditions are as dire as those uncovered in Dundee.