A depraved sex offender has been sentenced to 21 months in jail for the abuse of two young girls in Airdrie and Coatbridge. Gerald O’Hare, 58, pleaded guilty to two charges of lewd, indecent, and libidinous behavior towards the victims in the 1980s and 90s. The victims have faced mental health issues as a result of O’Hare’s actions, as revealed in Airdrie Sheriff Court.
The court heard that O’Hare exposed himself and engaged in inappropriate behaviour with the first victim between May 1982 and December 1985. Similarly, he conducted himself in a disturbing manner towards the second girl from July 1995 to March the following year, which included inappropriate touching. The victims reported feeling scared and traumatized by O’Hare’s actions, noting that he would smirk while carrying out the abuse.
Prosecutor Sarah Healing shared that the victims suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and mental health struggles due to the abuse. One of the victims came forward last year, prompting the other victim to report the historical abuse as well. Despite his previous jail term in 2001 for similar offences, it took years for O’Hare’s earlier victims to speak out about his behaviour.
Defence advocate Mairi-Clare McMillan acknowledged the impact of O’Hare’s actions on the victims and stated that he had taken responsibility for his behaviour. She highlighted his avoidance of further offending for the past 25 years and suggested a community order as an alternative to imprisonment, emphasizing that there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
However, Sheriff Paul Haran deemed the offences to be of a very serious nature and sentenced O’Hare to imprisonment, mentioning O’Hare’s engagement with offense-focused work following his previous conviction. The sheriff acknowledged O’Hare’s level of insight and acceptance of responsibility but concluded that a custodial sentence was warranted. O’Hare was also placed on the sex offenders’ register.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Gerald O’Hare for his despicable actions towards vulnerable young girls serves as a reminder of the importance of holding perpetrators of sexual abuse accountable for their crimes. The courage of the victims in coming forward after years of suffering reflects the long-lasting impact of such heinous acts on survivors’ mental health and well-being. Swift and just legal action in such cases is crucial to ensuring justice and protection for the vulnerable in society.