ALEXANDER LUMGAIR FROM KELSO SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN SCOTTISH BORDERS

In a case that has shocked the local community, Alexander Lumgair, a pensioner residing near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, has been found guilty of possessing a significant collection of indecent images of children. The authorities uncovered over 100 such photographs during a police investigation that was initiated based on credible information received from an anonymous source.

In April of the previous year, law enforcement officers from the Jedburgh Sheriff Court responded to a tip-off and visited Lumgair’s residence at Roxburgh Mains Farm Cottage. During the search, officers discovered a disturbing cache of digital material. A laptop belonging to Lumgair contained approximately 80 images depicting children aged between two and 12 years old. Additionally, a USB stick recovered from the premises held around 50 images, featuring children aged between six and 14.

Some of these images were classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of indecency and criminality, highlighting the gravity of the offense. The investigation revealed that Lumgair had engaged in the creation or distribution of these illicit images at his home between April 2nd and April 9th of the previous year. The court heard that Lumgair admitted to the charges, which included not only possession but also taking or allowing the taking of indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of children.

During the proceedings, Lumgair’s solicitor explained that the initial click on a suspicious link led him down a disturbing digital path, which ultimately resulted in the discovery of the images. Despite the nature of the charges, the court noted that Lumgair appeared contrite and expressed remorse for his actions. Furthermore, he had engaged with the Lucy Faithfull Foundation, a charity dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse, indicating some level of acknowledgment and willingness to seek help.

In delivering the sentence, Sheriff Peter Paterson emphasized that the punishment was a direct alternative to imprisonment. Lumgair was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for a period of five years, reflecting the seriousness with which the court viewed his offenses and the need for ongoing monitoring and community safety.