GARY DEAN FROM LANARKSHIRE REOFFENDS AFTER SEX OFFENDER ORDER

In August 2022, a serious incident unfolded involving Gary Dean, a known high-risk sex offender from Lanarkshire, who committed a further offence mere weeks after being subjected to a stringent supervision order. The sequence of events highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in monitoring and managing individuals with a history of sexual offenses.

Gary Dean, aged 57, appeared once again before Hamilton Sheriff Court on a recent Friday, where he faced charges related to his latest misconduct. The court was informed that Dean had been caught downloading explicit images involving children, an act that directly contravened the conditions of his supervision. The offence took place at a flat located on Main Street in Blantyre, on the 1st of April this year.

Furthermore, Dean was found to have deliberately deleted his internet browsing history using a device capable of 'cleaning' or erasing digital records. This act of attempting to conceal his online activity was considered a breach of the terms set out in his sexual offences prevention order (SOPO). The order, issued at the same court on February 16, 2022, mandated strict supervision and registration requirements, including regular police checks on his internet devices. Dean's failure to adhere to these conditions was a serious violation.

Prosecutor Jennifer Cunningham revealed that authorities discovered 17 indecent images depicting girls aged between four and 16 years old on a tablet and a mobile phone belonging to Dean. The investigation also uncovered the presence of a device specifically used to delete browsing records, indicating an attempt to hide his online activities. During police interviews, Dean admitted to viewing adult pornography, but he also acknowledged that some links led him to images of children. When questioned further, he expressed remorse, stating, "I know you have all tried, but this is on me. I’m sorry."

Given the gravity of the situation, Sheriff Ray Small decided to postpone sentencing until August 25 to allow for comprehensive background reports and a risk assessment. Dean, who has been in custody since April, remains detained and has not been released pending the court's final decision. The case underscores the persistent difficulties in supervising sex offenders and preventing reoffending, especially in cases where individuals attempt to evade detection through digital means.