LIAM HANRATTY FROM DUMFRIES EXPOSED AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON YOUNG GIRLS

In December 2017, a disturbing case emerged involving Liam Hanratty, a teenage male from Dumfries, who committed heinous acts of sexual assault against multiple young girls. The crimes, which shocked the local community and garnered widespread attention, involved grooming and attacking victims as young as 11 years old. Hanratty’s predatory behavior was carried out through online platforms, specifically Facebook and Snapchat, where he lured vulnerable girls into trusting him before subjecting them to sexual violence.

One of the most distressing aspects of this case is that Hanratty, at the time of the offenses, was only 16 years old. His victims included a girl aged 16, who bravely testified during his trial, recounting how she shouted “No” as he forced himself upon her. She described her emotional state during the assault, saying, “I was crying my eyes out and screaming,” highlighting the trauma inflicted upon her. The assaults took place in various locations within Dumfries, including a private house and a shed, indicating a disturbing level of planning and intent.

Hanratty’s criminal activities came to light when he was convicted at the High Court in Glasgow in August of the same year. Due to legal restrictions at the time, his identity could not be publicly disclosed because he was still 17. However, following his 18th birthday, the court ban on revealing his name expired, allowing his identity to be publicly disclosed. This decision was met with mixed reactions; a relative of one of the victims expressed support for the move, stating, “He deserves to be named and shamed. Why should he be able to put what he did behind him when his victims aren’t able to?”

The relative further emphasized the lasting impact of Hanratty’s actions, noting, “This had a huge effect on the girls. They’re still dealing with the trauma and getting counselling.” The court sentenced Hanratty to six years in prison for his crimes, but critics argued that the sentence was too lenient given the severity of his offenses. The judge, Lord Arthurson, also ordered Hanratty to be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the potential risk he poses to the community.

Prior to these offenses, Hanratty had a criminal record that included convictions for assault and possession of a knife, indicating a pattern of concerning behavior. As he prepares for eventual release, the community of Dumfries is now more aware of his identity and the crimes he committed, with many feeling that public awareness is crucial for safeguarding other potential victims.