BRAIN HENDERSON PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL ABUSE IN WISHAW

In September 2017, a disturbing case unfolded in Wishaw involving Brian Henderson, a pensioner who now faces serious criminal charges related to the sexual abuse of young girls. Henderson, aged 70 and residing at Dryburgh Court in Wishaw, was brought to trial at Hamilton Sheriff Court, where he was accused of committing multiple acts of sexual misconduct over a span of several years.

The allegations against Henderson are both grave and extensive. The court heard that over a period stretching from December 1995 to December 2000, he engaged in a series of heinous acts targeting minors. The victims included an 11-year-old girl, whom he reportedly made inappropriate remarks towards, exposed himself, and induced her to handle his genitals. These incidents took place at Wishaw Sports Centre and various addresses within the town. The court was told that Henderson also placed his hand inside her clothing and handled her private parts during these encounters.

Further charges detailed his abuse of a girl aged between 12 and 15, whom he forced to straddle him, pushed his genitals into her back, and simulated sexual intercourse. He repeatedly handled her private parts and penetrated her with his fingers during the period from December 1996 to 2000. The court also found Henderson guilty of sexually assaulting another teenage girl between 2001 and 2003, adding to the pattern of predatory behavior.

In addition to the sexual offenses, Henderson was convicted of multiple assaults involving physical violence. Between December 1995 and December 2000, he repeatedly struck an adolescent aged 11 to 15 on the head and body. Similar assaults were committed on another teenager between January 2001 and January 2005. The court also heard that Henderson was guilty of assaulting a woman between April 1989 and March 1995, during which he seized her by the throat, knocked her to the ground, and repeatedly struck her on the head and body, causing injury.

Throughout the trial, Henderson showed no visible emotion when the jury delivered their verdict. The jury found him guilty by majority on three charges of sexual assault and three charges of physical assault. The case was heard over a two-day period, and the verdict was announced last Wednesday at Hamilton Sheriff Court.

Sentencing for Henderson has been deferred until September 27, allowing for further consideration of his case. The community and victims await the outcome, which will determine the severity of his punishment for these serious crimes committed in and around Wishaw.