GEORGE MCGREGOR LIVINGSTON SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED FOR ASSAULT ON TEENAGE GIRL IN WEST LOTHIAN

In May 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving a serious sexual assault committed by a man named George McGregor, who resides on Leven Walk in Livingston, West Lothian. The incident involved a teenage girl who was staying overnight at McGregor's residence, and the repercussions of this crime have led to a significant legal outcome.

McGregor, aged 40, was convicted of sexually assaulting the 17-year-old girl during her stay at his home on the night of March 29, 2020. The charges centered around allegations that he digitally penetrated her while she was asleep, an act that she was unable to consent to due to her state of sleep. Despite his initial denial of the allegations, the case proceeded to trial at Livingston Sheriff Court in March of this year.

During the proceedings, the jury deliberated and ultimately reached a majority verdict, finding McGregor guilty of the sexual assault. The court heard that after the girl awoke, McGregor continued to fondle her, even as she was trying to wake up and become aware of her surroundings. He then pretended to be sleeping, further complicating the situation and demonstrating a clear disregard for her well-being and consent.

Following the conviction, Sheriff Douglas Kinloch delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of the offense. He reminded McGregor that the victim was only 17 years old at the time of the assault, highlighting the serious breach of trust and the vulnerability of the young girl. The sheriff expressed his concern about the motivations and circumstances surrounding the crime, suggesting that alcohol or personal relationship issues might have influenced McGregor's behavior, though these factors did not diminish the severity of the offense.

Sheriff Kinloch stated, “Why you allowed yourself to do this to her, only you will know. Drink may have affected your judgement. Possible difficulties in your own relationship may also have contributed, I don’t know. But it was seriously wrong to do what you did and the only real question in this case now is whether a prison sentence has to be imposed.”

He further described the assault as an invasion of the girl’s person, elevating it to a serious level of sexual misconduct. The sheriff pointed out that the victim, being less than half McGregor’s age, should have been safe and protected in his home, making the breach of trust even more egregious. The impact on the girl was significant, with Sheriff Kinloch noting that she had suffered considerable distress and upset, which is likely to have lasting effects.

After considering all circumstances, Sheriff Kinloch concluded that the only appropriate response was to impose a custodial sentence. McGregor was sentenced to 18 months in prison, reflecting the seriousness of the crime and the need for justice. Additionally, he was ordered to remain on the sex offenders register for ten years and was prohibited from approaching or contacting the victim for the next 27 months, ensuring a period of protection for the young girl and the community of Livingston in West Lothian.