A woman attempted to set fire to her neighbour’s flat following a dispute over an unpaid loan, narrowly avoiding a prison sentence at Hamilton Sheriff Court. Tracey Maxwell, aged 50, pleaded guilty to attempted fireraising in Burnbank Gardens on November 1, 2022. The court heard that Maxwell placed a rag in the letterbox of her neighbour’s flat, sprayed a flammable liquid on the door, and left a lit match on the doormat. Fortunately, the neighbour discovered the fire-setting attempt before any serious damage occurred.
The incident unfolded after Maxwell had an altercation with the man regarding a loan she had failed to repay. In court, her defence lawyer, Scott Jones, highlighted Maxwell’s challenging background and mental health issues, portraying her as a vulnerable individual in need of support. Reports from social work and medical professionals supported this claim, indicating that Maxwell could benefit from a community payback order to address underlying issues.
Sheriff Louise Gallacher acknowledged that while the offence was serious, Maxwell displayed significant remorse and had no prior record of similar incidents. As a result, the sheriff opted for an alternative to a custodial sentence, imposing a 12-month social work supervision order on Maxwell. Additionally, she was mandated to undertake 100 hours of unpaid community work and referred to mental health services for further assistance.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing underlying issues such as mental health challenges when dealing with criminal behaviour. It highlights the potential for rehabilitation and support to prevent reoffending and promote personal growth and accountability. The judicial system’s emphasis on providing appropriate interventions and guidance to individuals like Maxwell demonstrates a commitment to holistic justice and community well-being. By addressing the root causes of criminal behaviour, society can strive towards a more compassionate and rehabilitative approach to justice.