DEREK DIFFER SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR RAPE OF 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN CROY, DUNBARTONSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the community of Croy in Dunbartonshire, Derek Differ, a 64-year-old man, was sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted of multiple heinous crimes involving a young girl. The court heard that Differ had repeatedly assaulted a 13-year-old girl, an ordeal that culminated in her becoming pregnant and ultimately having an abortion at 20 weeks. The gravity of his actions was underscored by the fact that he was in a position of trust over the victim during the abuse.

Differ's criminal activities did not stop with this young girl. Over a span of nine years, he also sexually abused three other girls, one of whom was only 10 years old at the time. The depravity of his conduct was revealed during a previous hearing at the High Court in Dunfermline, where it was disclosed that his offending only came to light in July of the previous year. It was the victim's aunt who was informed of the abuse by the girl herself, prompting her parents to report the matter to the police.

During the sentencing hearing, the defense, represented by Mhari Richards, explained that Differ had confessed to the crimes. She stated, “Differ confessed to the offences in order to spare the victims having to come to court to give evidence.” Despite this, the court recognized the severity of his actions and the danger he posed to children in the community.

Lord Hardie, presiding over the case, addressed Differ directly, emphasizing the high risk he posed to children. The judge highlighted the most serious offense, which involved the rape of a young girl while Differ was in a position of trust. The court was told that the girl became pregnant as a result of the assault, and her pregnancy was terminated at 20 weeks. The judge pointed out that Differ continued to have sexual intercourse with her even after she became pregnant.

In his sentencing remarks, Lord Hardie declared that the public must be protected from Differ. As a result, he imposed a life sentence, with a minimum term of six years before parole eligibility. Furthermore, the judge ordered that Differ would remain on license for the rest of his life upon release, reflecting the ongoing risk he poses to society. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Croy and underscores the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable children from predators.