WILLIAM MAXWELL OF BEATTACK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRLS IN DUMFRIES

In February 2019, William Maxwell, a 57-year-old man from Craigielands Park in Beattock, was legally mandated to pay compensation to two young girls he had sexually assaulted. The court ordered Maxwell to pay each girl £400 in restitution for the trauma inflicted upon them. Additionally, he was placed on probation for a period of 12 months and was required to register as a sex offender for one year, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

Maxwell had previously admitted to engaging in indecent behavior towards the girls, who were both under the age of 12 at the time of the incidents. His guilty plea came after a period of legal proceedings that highlighted the disturbing nature of his offenses. The court's decision underscores the seriousness with which such crimes are treated, especially involving vulnerable minors.

Earlier in January 2019, Maxwell appeared at Dumfries Crown Court to face charges related to sexual offenses committed against the two young girls approximately 15 years prior. During the hearing, Maxwell, also known as a waste management worker, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including acts of indecency, sexual assault, and lewd behavior directed at the minors. The allegations detailed that Maxwell had kissed the girls, removed their clothing, and engaged in inappropriate conduct towards them.

Initially, Maxwell had denied the charges and pleaded not guilty, forcing the victims to testify against him during a jury trial. The trial lasted three days, during which the victims provided evidence describing the abuse they endured. However, after the jury's deliberation, Maxwell ultimately admitted to the offenses, leading to a deferred sentencing hearing.

The court scheduled Maxwell's sentencing for February 13th at Dumfries Sheriff’s Court, where a final judgment will be made regarding his punishment. The case has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the crimes and the impact on the victims, emphasizing the importance of justice for vulnerable minors in the community of Beattock and the wider Dumfries area.