DAVID EAGLESHAM LIVES NEAR BO’NESS SCHOOL AFTER SEX OFFENSES

In February 1998, a disturbing situation unfolded in the town of Bo’ness, West Lothian, where residents were shocked to learn that David Eaglesham, a man convicted of serious sexual offenses, had recently been released from prison and was now residing just a short distance from a local school.

David Eaglesham, a pensioner aged 66 at the time, had served a two-year sentence at Barlinnie prison following his conviction for multiple sexual assaults on a 10-year-old girl. His release came only two weeks prior to the community’s growing concern, and he was placed on a residential street called School Brae, a name that seemed particularly inappropriate given the circumstances.

The local community in Bo’ness was outraged upon discovering Eaglesham’s return to the area. Many residents expressed their alarm and dismay, especially considering the proximity of his new residence to the town’s Public School. The fact that his house was located on the main walkway leading directly to the school intensified fears among parents and guardians.

In response to the community’s distress, some shopkeepers in the town reportedly took steps to distance themselves from Eaglesham, with claims that they had banned him from entering their premises. The residents, including parents of schoolchildren, demanded action, and discussions with local council officials were initiated in an effort to have Eaglesham removed from the neighborhood.

Local authorities, under the guidance of Falkirk Council, announced plans to issue a public notice informing residents of Eaglesham’s release and his current residence. This move was part of a broader initiative by the council to adopt a tougher stance on sex offenders, aiming to keep the community informed and vigilant.

Michael Yard, a resident living directly opposite Eaglesham’s house, voiced his concerns: “I’ve heard of at least two shopkeepers who have said they don’t want him in their shops. Everyone in the town is in uproar. He lives just a few minutes away from a school. The road is even called School Brae, so I just don’t know what the authorities were thinking of. The house he has is even on the main walkway to the school.”

Michael, a father of two aged 40, also mentioned that a recent meeting with officials had been productive: “The meeting we held with the officials went very well. They’re going to issue a public notice and notify the people of Bo’ness that he’s here.”

Another resident, Janice Anderson, expressed her outrage: “It was bad enough when he was let out of jail. Now he’s back living in the town; it is horrendous. He goes about as if nothing has happened.”

Town councillor John Constable acknowledged the community’s concerns, stating, “I have received approaches from concerned constituents and will act accordingly.” The situation highlighted the ongoing tension between community safety and the rehabilitation efforts for offenders, with many residents feeling vulnerable and demanding stricter measures to prevent any potential harm.