PHILIP MCLEAN SHOCKS KILMARNOCK WITH SEXUAL ABUSE OF 11-YEAR-OLD GIRL DURING BABYSITTING

In October 2011, a disturbing case emerged from Kilmarnock involving Philip McLean, a 41-year-old postman who admitted to sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl during a period of babysitting. The High Court in Glasgow heard that McLean's misconduct spanned over a year, beginning when the girl was just 11 years old and continuing for approximately twelve months.

The court was informed that the abuse took place at a residence in Kilmarnock between April 2003 and June 2004. McLean, who is a father of two, was often entrusted with babysitting the young girl, which he exploited for his own illicit purposes. Witnesses revealed that McLean would sometimes reward the girl with treats, privileges, and presents, likely to maintain her compliance and silence.

It was disclosed during the proceedings that the abuse was not a one-time event but occurred at least twice weekly during the periods he was responsible for her care. The young girl, overwhelmed by the trauma, eventually confided in her mother about the abuse, which led to police involvement.

When questioned by law enforcement authorities, McLean did not deny the allegations. Instead, he admitted to engaging in repeated lewd and libidinous acts on the girl, acknowledging his misconduct during police interviews. The court heard that the impact of this abuse has been profoundly damaging to the victim, affecting her health and well-being.

During the hearing, defence lawyer Louise Arrol pointed out that McLean had pled guilty at the earliest opportunity, which was taken into consideration by the court. The case has sent shockwaves through the community of Kilmarnock, highlighting the serious nature of the crimes committed by someone in a trusted position of care.