DECLAN LATTA

A woman from Lanarkshire was subjected to a frightening encounter with a man who demanded sexual favors following a night out.

Declan Latta, aged 25, was found guilty at Hamilton Sheriff Court of sexually assaulting a woman with intent to rape.

The incident occurred after she allowed him into her home, believing he had an argument with his girlfriend.

In the incident, Latta, who had been expelled from a local pub but was later permitted back, attacked the 43-year-old woman at her residence in Motherwell.

He pulled down his trousers and demanded she perform a sex act.

He also tried to kiss her and made lewd comments while pushing her.

The woman responded by locking herself in the bathroom and sending a message to her son.

Latta then forcibly entered a bedroom where he suggested sex, despite her protests that she was old enough to be his mother.

The situation ended when her son arrived home, causing Latta to flee.

He denied any wrongdoing but was subsequently convicted after a trial.

During court proceedings, the woman described her feelings of horror and trauma, stating she now struggles to enter relationships or visit pubs.

She emphasized her ongoing distress over the ordeal.

Latta claimed he was innocent and accused the woman of lying, explaining his aspirations to join the police or fire services and expressing disappointment at how the case affected his ambitions.

The sheriff, Colin Dunipace, delayed sentencing to await further reports and remanded Latta in custody, acknowledging the gravity of the conviction and the likelihood of a custodial sentence.

Latta is now listed on the sex offenders' register and remains in the Hamilton area with his partner, having served less than half of his sentence.