RICHARD MORGAN FROM HIGH VALLEYFIELD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST THREE-YEAR-OLD IN WEST FIFE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of West Fife, Richard Morgan, a 30-year-old man residing on Dunimarle Street in High Valleyfield, was convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl multiple times. The offenses took place over a period spanning from January 1, 2016, to May 7 of the previous year, at an address in North Queensferry. The court heard that Morgan’s actions involved repeated sexual abuse of a three-year-old girl, a crime that has left a lasting scar on the victim and her family.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that concerns about Morgan’s conduct surfaced initially after the girl made certain comments that raised alarm among social workers and authorities. Forensic examinations confirmed the severity of the case, as semen belonging to Morgan was found on the child's underwear. When questioned by police, Morgan was unable to provide any explanation for the presence of his semen at the scene. Furthermore, he chose to remain silent when formally cautioned and charged, offering no response to the allegations against him.

In his defense, Morgan’s advocate, Grant Markie, highlighted that the social work report indicated Morgan expressed remorse and regret for his actions. The report also noted that Morgan had attempted to take his own life in August, shortly after his initial court appearance. It was described that Morgan led a relatively isolated life, with a limited social circle, which may have contributed to his circumstances. Despite these factors, the court was told that Morgan’s remorse did not fully acknowledge the extent of the harm caused.

Presiding Sheriff Charles MacNair delivered a stern judgment, condemning Morgan’s breach of trust and emphasizing the gravity of his offenses. The sheriff was particularly appalled by Morgan’s statement that he believed the girl’s memory of the abuse would “fade away,” a comment he described as “nothing short of an obscenity.” The sheriff made it clear that such a belief demonstrated a disturbing lack of understanding of the impact of sexual abuse on young children.

As a result of his crimes, Morgan was sentenced to a total of 40 months in prison. Additionally, he was subjected to a 10-year sexual offences prevention order, which is intended to prevent any future offending. Morgan was also placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, reflecting the court’s assessment of him as posing a “real risk” of re-offending in the future. The case has left a deep scar on the community of West Fife, highlighting the importance of vigilance and swift justice in protecting vulnerable children from harm.