THOMAS TWYCROSS: NETHERTON SEX OFFENDER WITH A LONG HISTORY OF CRIMES IN MOTHERWELL AND COATBRIDGE

In October 2015, a disturbing case unfolded involving Thomas Twycross, a known sex offender with a troubling history of criminal behavior towards children. The incident took place in the residential streets of Netherton, where Twycross, aged 62 and residing on Grange Avenue, was found guilty of causing fear and distress to three young boys near his home. The court proceedings revealed that on July 21 of that year, Twycross was observed engaging in unsettling behavior as he watched children aged eight and 11 playing in the street. Witnesses reported that he attempted to conceal himself behind a wall and a parked car while spying on the youngsters, actions that deeply alarmed the community.

Despite his protests of innocence, the court, presided over by Sheriff Vincent Smith, found sufficient evidence to convict Twycross of these offenses. The sheriff noted that there was a significant sexual element involved in the case, which justified a maximum sentence of one year, even though the case was prosecuted under summary procedure, which generally limits sentencing options. Twycross was subsequently sentenced to a year in prison. The court also heard that Twycross was on parole at the time of this latest offense, and as a result, his license was revoked, potentially extending his incarceration until September 2019.

Throughout the proceedings, Twycross’s criminal history was brought to light, illustrating a pattern of predatory behavior towards children. He had previously served a two-year and eight-month sentence in 2012 after admitting to making indecent remarks to a 12-year-old girl near his then residence in Freesia Court, Motherwell. Additionally, he had acknowledged possessing obscene photographs of children. His criminal record also includes a 2003 jail term for pestering young girls at a park in Coatbridge, and a three-year sentence in 2006 for stalking girls aged eight and 14 in Bellshill, where he was living at the time. These prior convictions underscore a long-standing pattern of offending that has spanned over a decade.

Community members expressed outrage upon learning of Twycross’s latest conviction, especially given his history. Neighbors in Freesia Court, where he previously resided, voiced their frustration that he was housed nearby without being informed of his disturbing background. Many felt that such information should have been disclosed to ensure community safety. The court was also informed that Twycross had been placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely just three years prior, highlighting the ongoing risk he poses.

During the hearing, Twycross’s defense attorney, Raymond Ferguson, acknowledged that the parole board was unlikely to view his client’s latest actions sympathetically. The court’s decision to impose the maximum available sentence reflected the seriousness of the case and the need to protect the community from further harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by repeat offenders with long histories of predatory behavior towards children, and the importance of vigilant community and judicial oversight.