JAMES MCCARRON SHOCKS LARKHALL WITH VIOLENT ATTACK AND POLICE SPIT INCIDENT

James McCarron, a 41-year-old man with an extensive criminal history, faced the Hamilton Sheriff Court to answer for a series of violent acts committed at his residence in Larkhall. The court heard that on July 14 of the previous year, McCarron engaged in a brutal assault involving his partner, a 39-year-old woman, and his 18-year-old stepdaughter, during a disturbing incident that unfolded in their home.

Prosecutor Aga Mathieson detailed the events, revealing that the assault was triggered around 10 am following a heated argument over a dog. According to the prosecution, McCarron’s anger erupted violently as he grabbed his partner, forcibly dragging her to the floor. During the altercation, he struck her head against an electric box, causing injury. The assault escalated as he proceeded to punch and kick her while she was curled up on the ground, attempting to protect herself from the relentless violence.

When the stepdaughter attempted to intervene and stop the assault, McCarron responded with further violence, hitting her in the mouth. The blow caused her lip to bleed, adding to the trauma inflicted during the incident. After the assault, McCarron left the scene, leaving behind a trail of violence and distress.

In addition to the assault charges, McCarron admitted to carrying a scalpel without any legitimate reason, which raised concerns about his intentions and mental state. During his arrest, police located the weapon in his tracksuit pocket in Motherwell, where he was found hiding. The situation worsened when McCarron spat at a police officer during the arrest process, an act that further demonstrated his defiance and disrespect for law enforcement.

His defense team argued that McCarron was under the influence of medication at the time, which impaired his memory and judgment, claiming he had little recollection of the events. Despite these claims, the court found sufficient evidence of his guilt and sentenced him to two years in prison. The sentence was backdated to account for the time he had already spent in custody since July. Additionally, McCarron was ordered to stay away from his ex-partner for two years under a non-harassment order, aiming to prevent further incidents of violence or intimidation.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of domestic violence and the importance of legal measures to protect victims, especially in cases where mental health and substance influence are factors. The community in Larkhall continues to grapple with the aftermath of this disturbing incident, which underscores the need for vigilance and support for those affected by such violence.