ALEX PURDIE FROM KYLE OF LOCHALSH AND WHITBURN GUILTY OF ABUSING DISABLED CHILDREN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Kyle of Lochalsh and Whitburn, a man named Alex Purdie, aged 49, has been found guilty of heinous sexual offenses involving two vulnerable children. The crimes took place over a period of more than 14 years, with Purdie luring a disabled girl and her brother to his residence under false pretenses, promising treats and snacks to gain their trust.

According to court proceedings, Purdie had denied the charges, which included two counts of lewd, indecent, and libidinous practices committed against the young girl, who was only eight years old at the time, and her 11-year-old brother. The court heard that the girl, now 23, has a mental age of approximately 10, which underscores her vulnerability during the incidents.

The court was informed that the girl recounted how Purdie performed an indecent act on her more than 14 years ago, when she was just eight years old. She described how Purdie would frequently invite her to stay overnight at his flat in Whitburn, often enticing her with promises of Swiss roll for supper. It was revealed that Purdie exploited her medical condition, which required her to wear nappies until she was 10, to carry out the abuse while she was being changed.

Her brother, now 25, also testified that he was subjected to repeated abuse by Purdie when he was 11 years old. His preferred treats from Purdie included Mars bars, chocolates, and juice. The brother expressed that the traumatic experiences had a lasting impact on his mental health, causing him to doubt his own sexuality and develop a fear of crowds.

The victim’s mother, who was present at the trial, disclosed that she had previously taken pity on Purdie and had housed him when he was homeless, despite her eldest daughter’s instinct that he was “creepy.” She revealed that she only became aware of the full extent of the abuse last year when her son confided in her about the incidents that occurred during sleepovers at Purdie’s home. The mother recounted her feelings of guilt and frustration, explaining that she had argued with Purdie at the time of the offenses because her son was “scared of Alex,” though he refused to disclose why.

She expressed her anguish, saying, “I wanted them with me 24/7 but I didn’t want to come across as the bad mum.” She added, “I hate him. I wanted to kill him. How would any parent feel? I felt I’d let my kids down.”

Sentencing was deferred until January 7, and Purdie’s name has been officially added to the sex offenders’ register, marking a significant step in the justice process for these serious crimes. The case has left a lasting scar on the victims and their family, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding vulnerable children from predators in communities across Scotland.