WILLIAM DUGGAN FROM ISLE OF MAN WINS APPEAL BUT STILL FACES 11-YEAR PRISON SENTENCE FOR HISTORIC SEX OFFENCES

William Duggan, a convicted child sex offender from the Isle of Man, has successfully appealed his original prison sentences related to historic sexual offences committed against two young boys. Despite the successful appeal, Duggan will continue to serve a substantial prison term of 11 years.

His case involved allegations of gross indecency and indecent assaults spanning over a period of 13 years, during which he was found guilty of multiple serious offences. The court proceedings revealed that Duggan’s age at the time of the offences was a significant factor that was not adequately considered during his initial sentencing.

In the appeal hearing, Judges of Appeal Cross and Acting Deemster Gough reviewed the case and determined that the original court had overlooked the impact of Duggan’s youth on his culpability. As a result, they adjusted his sentences for a total of 14 serious sex offences. However, these adjustments ultimately balanced out, meaning that Duggan’s overall time behind bars remains unchanged at 11 years.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about how the justice system handles historic sexual offences, especially when the offender’s age and circumstances are taken into account. Duggan’s case continues to draw attention within the Isle of Man community, emphasizing the importance of justice for victims while also considering the offender’s background.