JAMES TOUGH ARBROATH SEX OFFENDER JAILED FOR INDECENT ASSAULT ON 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In April 2012, a serious criminal case unfolded involving James Tough, a resident of Arbroath, who was convicted of a disturbing sexual assault on a young girl. The incident took place within the confines of a house in Arbroath, where Tough committed the assault against a 12-year-old girl who was under the influence of alcohol at the time.

Prior to the assault, the girl had been socializing with friends in a local park, consuming alcohol. The group’s activities took a turn when police arrived to confiscate the alcohol, prompting the girl to enter a nearby house for refuge. It was within this house that Tough, then 23 years old, committed the indecent assault.

During the sentencing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Lord Uist delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the need for public protection. Tough was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison. Additionally, the judge ordered that Tough be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for the remainder of his life, reflecting the gravity of his offense.

Furthermore, Lord Uist mandated that Tough undergo supervision by authorities for a period of three years following his release from incarceration. Tough had previously pleaded guilty to the charge of indecent assault during an earlier hearing, which likely influenced the court’s decision.

Defense lawyer Ronnie Renucci argued that Tough’s mental capacity was a mitigating factor, citing that he had a very low IQ at the time of the offense, which was when he was 22 years old. Renucci also pointed out that the maturity gap between Tough and the young girl was not as significant as their ages might suggest, implying that Tough’s mental state should be considered during sentencing.

However, Lord Uist responded firmly, stating, “The public need to be protected from behaviour of this kind,” underscoring the importance of safeguarding community members from such predatory actions. The case highlights the ongoing concerns about safeguarding minors and the responsibilities of the justice system in addressing sexual offenses involving young victims.