MALCOLM RAMAGE FROM SHOTTS ADDED TO SEX OFFENDERS' REGISTER AFTER CHILD ABUSE VIDEOS DISCOVERED

A man from Lanarkshire has been officially placed on the sex offenders' register following a disturbing discovery by authorities of multiple videos depicting child abuse on his electronic device. Malcolm Ramage, aged 20 and a resident of Shotts, was taken into custody during a police operation carried out on June 4 of the previous year. The arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into online child exploitation, which led to the seizure of his mobile phone from his bedroom at his then residence.

During the subsequent court proceedings at Hamilton Sheriff Court this week, Ramage admitted to downloading indecent materials. The police investigation revealed that the mobile device contained access to an online storage account holding a total of 57 videos. These videos depicted children ranging in age from four to 16 being subjected to sexual abuse. Among these, 41 videos were classified as the most depraved, highlighting the severity and disturbing nature of the content.

Ramage, who is recognized as a first-time offender, is currently awaiting sentencing. The court has ordered background checks, a risk assessment, and an electronic tagging evaluation to be completed before a final decision is made. The sentencing has been deferred until June, allowing authorities to thoroughly evaluate the case and determine appropriate measures to address his actions. The case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat online child exploitation and protect vulnerable victims from harm.