ERNEST WATT FROM WICK SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS FOR ABUSING CHILDREN IN CAITHNESS

A man from Wick, identified as Ernest Watt, has been sentenced to a total of eight years in prison after being convicted of heinous crimes involving the abuse of three young children. The offences took place over a span of several years, specifically between January 2011 and February 2017, at various properties within Wick, Caithness.

Watt, aged 48 at the time of sentencing, was found guilty in a trial held at the High Court in Glasgow. The court heard that he committed multiple acts of sexual violence and physical abuse against the children, which included raping one boy, sexually assaulting another, and abusing a girl. The abuse was not limited to sexual acts; Watt also inflicted physical harm, notably striking the children with a belt and pushing one of the boys onto a bed during the course of his assaults.

The judge, Lord Armstrong, emphasized the gravity of Watt’s actions, especially given his position of trust as an adult in a caregiving role. In his sentencing remarks, Lord Armstrong stated, “You were in a clear position of trust and the crimes were committed against children. During this period, you repeatedly assaulted them in your house.”

He further highlighted Watt’s criminal history, which dates back to 1991, revealing a record that includes 37 previous convictions. Despite this extensive criminal background, Watt continued to deny responsibility for his actions during the trial, maintaining a dismissive attitude towards his victims. The judge condemned this attitude, noting Watt’s lack of empathy and the importance of societal condemnation of crimes against children.

In addition to the prison sentence, Watt was subjected to an extended sentence of four years upon his release, reflecting the severity and ongoing risk associated with his crimes. Furthermore, Watt was ordered to register as a sex offender for an indefinite period, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from potential reoffending.

Watt’s case has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the crimes and the breach of trust involved. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are treated and the commitment to safeguarding vulnerable children from predators like Watt in the Wick and Caithness areas.