NORMAN WANLESS FROM CUMBERNAULD AND GLASGOW JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN DECADES AGO

In a case that has spanned decades and brought to light the dark history of child abuse, Norman Wanless, a 60-year-old man from Cumbernauld, has been sentenced to five years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offences committed against three young children more than 40 years ago. The offences, which include rape, attempted rape, and sodomy, date back to 1969 and were committed at various addresses within the Glasgow area.

During the proceedings at the High Court in Edinburgh, it was revealed that the victims were two girls, aged between five and 12 at the time, and a boy, aged between six and 10. The court heard harrowing details of the abuse, which had long-lasting effects on the victims' lives. The judge, Lord Armstrong, expressed his condemnation of Wanless's actions, stating that he had robbed his victims of their childhood innocence.

Lord Armstrong emphasized the societal outrage towards such conduct, asserting, "Society has an abhorrence of such conduct and this court must reflect that." While acknowledging Wanless's age and the fact that he had no prior criminal record, the judge made it clear that a prison sentence was necessary to uphold justice and protect the community.

As part of his sentence, Wanless will also be required to register as a sex offender indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. The judge described the nature of the crimes as manipulative and predatory, highlighting the severity of the abuse inflicted upon the vulnerable children.

Victims' statements, which were read during the trial, underscored the profound and enduring impact of the abuse. Lord Armstrong concluded by condemning Wanless's actions, stating, "You were responsible for callously robbing these children of their childhood," a reflection of the deep scars left by his crimes. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of the passage of time.