Lanarkshire man gets jailed for child sex offences dating back 60 years

A leading charity has warned child abusers guilty of historic offences they no longer have anywhere to hide.

It follows the sentencing of a 73 year old Hamilton man at Glasgow High Court.

John Malone was sentenced to three years in prison for offences dating back to 1958 in which he sexually abused a boy and a girl of about eight years old.

A spokesman from NSPCC Scotland said: “This case sends out the message once again that child abuse will not be tolerated, no matter when the offences took place.

“The bravery of these victims to come forward after almost 60 years must be praised. We hope that this case will encourage others to speak out about abuse they have suffered, knowing they will be listened to, believed, and provided with appropriate advice and support.

“Sexual crimes against children are offences of the utmost seriousness and have a devastating effect on the victims, which can last into adulthood.”

The sex offences took place when Malone was a teenager, almost 60 years ago.

Judge Tom Hughes told Malone: "You appear to show some remorse, but the impact on the two complainers has been long and lasting.

"This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and will be punished by the courts.

"For your victims the shadow of what you did has not diminished, but they now know their voice has been heard and they have been vindicated."