JOHN HAMILTON FROM MOTHERWELL SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN LANARKSHIRE

In October 2017, a man named John Hamilton, aged 58, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses involving young girls in Lanarkshire. The heinous crimes took place over a period spanning from June 1995 to July 2000, with Hamilton targeting vulnerable victims at various locations within the region, including his residence in Motherwell.

According to the proceedings at the High Court in Edinburgh, Hamilton began his pattern of abuse in June 1995 when his first victim, a girl aged just 12, was subjected to sexual assault. The abuse continued until November of the same year. Simultaneously, Hamilton also began abusing a second girl, also 12 years old, starting in June 1995. His assault on her persisted for approximately three years, until 1998, during which time she endured ongoing victimization.

In October 1995, Hamilton's predatory behavior extended to a third young girl, who was only 10 years old at the time. His abuse of this girl was repeated on numerous occasions, lasting until July 2000. The court heard that between September 1998 and October 1999, Hamilton committed a particularly grave offense by raping this third girl. These acts of sexual violence were uncovered only after police launched a detailed investigation into the allegations, which had been brought to their attention by the victims themselves.

The victims played a crucial role in assisting law enforcement officials to build a case against Hamilton. Their cooperation and bravery were instrumental in ensuring that he was brought to justice. Following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow last month, Hamilton was convicted on charges of sexual assault and rape. The court had deferred sentencing to allow for reports on Hamilton’s character and mental health to be prepared.

During the sentencing hearing, defense lawyer Simon Gilbride argued that his client maintained his innocence and highlighted that Hamilton was suffering from numerous health issues. Despite these claims, the presiding judge, Lord Turnbull, emphasized the severity of Hamilton’s crimes. He stated that the only appropriate sentence was a custodial term, underscoring the court’s duty to protect children from such heinous acts. Lord Turnbull made it clear that adult men who commit sexual offenses against minors should expect lengthy prison sentences, and he imposed a nine-year term on Hamilton, reflecting the gravity of his offenses and the need for justice in Lanarkshire and beyond.