DAVID HOGGAN ESCAPES PRISON SENTENCE IN BO’NESS SEX OFFENCES CASE

In April 2015, a man named David Hoggan, aged 46, was involved in a high-profile case concerning serious sex offences, including an incident involving a child under the age of 13. Despite the gravity of the charges, Hoggan was not sentenced to prison but instead received a community-based punishment at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

The offences for which Hoggan was convicted took place in the Dunipace area, which is near Bo’ness. The court proceedings revealed the details of his crimes, which led to a series of legal sanctions aimed at managing his risk to the community.

Hoggan, who resides on Pennelton Place in Bo’ness, was ordered to adhere to a community payback order that included a three-year supervision requirement. This supervision was designed to monitor his behavior and ensure compliance with the court’s directives. Additionally, he was mandated to complete 300 hours of community service, a measure intended to contribute positively to society and serve as a form of rehabilitation.

Furthermore, the court imposed a requirement for Hoggan to participate in a specialized group work programme titled ‘Moving Forward, Making Changes,’ which is specifically tailored for sex offenders. This programme aims to address underlying issues and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

As part of his sentencing, Hoggan was placed on the sex offenders register for a period of 15 years, a standard measure to keep track of individuals convicted of sexual crimes. He was also subjected to a 15-year sexual offences prevention order, which imposes strict guidelines regarding any contact or access to children. This order is intended to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent any potential harm.

Despite the serious nature of his offences, Hoggan’s case highlights the use of community-based sanctions and preventative measures in the Scottish justice system, especially in cases involving sexual offences against minors.