A man who sexually abused two young girls was branded “wicked and reprehensible” by a sheriff this week.
John Healy, 60, was jailed for 18 months when he appeared from custody at Hamilton Sheriff Court.
He admitted sexual offences involving the girls at an address in Wishaw.
Defence agent John McGeechan said Healy had himself been subjected to “years of physical abuse” as a child.
The solicitor told the court: “That has caused him difficulties.
“He describes himself as being emotionally and mentally scarred. He has a difficulty with alcohol.”
Mr McGeechan referred to a report by social workers that suggested his client could be given a lengthy supervision order in the community.
Passing sentence, Sheriff Colin Dunipace told Healy: “You pleaded guilty to acting in an utterly wicked and reprehensible manner.
“Your continuing failure to accept culpability and attempt to blame the victims reflect no credit on you whatsoever and are a matter of concern.
“Despite what has been said on your behalf, I am satisfied there is no alternative to a custodial sentence.”
The 18-month sentence was backdated to March 29 as Healy was remanded in custody then following his guilty pleas.
He will be supervised for a year on his release from prison and will be on the sex offenders’ register for 10 years.
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