Cruel Scots foster carer who violently attacked and humiliated children avoids jail


Cruel Scots Foster Carer Escapes Jail Sentence After Abusing and Humiliating Children

Angela Hassan, previously known as Deeney, a 78-year-old foster carer from Motherwell, has evaded a prison term despite being found guilty of three charges for abusing vulnerable children over almost two decades. In a trial at Hamilton Sheriff Court on October 15, 2024, Hassan was convicted of subjecting three vulnerable children to a campaign of abuse between 1971 and 1990.

Her actions came to light during a police investigation into child abuse allegations at Smyllum Park orphanage in Lanark. The victims, aged between five and 11 when the abuse started, were placed in Hassan’s care. One victim, a girl, was mistreated by Hassan through physical violence like hitting her head against a wall and punching her on the head and body. The abuser also humiliated the girl by making her insert used sanitary towels into a coal fire in front of others.

Another victim, a young boy, was repeatedly attacked by Hassan using objects like a slipper, a branch, and a belt. She would also force food into his mouth, hold him down, and embarrass him for bedwetting. The third victim also endured physical abuse and humiliation, including being told she did not need sanitary products.

As a result of the trial, on November 15, Hassan was handed a Community Payback Order as an alternative to a custodial sentence. She is required to complete 300 hours of unpaid work within 15 months and will be under supervision for the same duration. Les Brown, the Procurator Fiscal for South Strathclyde, condemned Hassan’s exploitation of her position of trust and commended the victims for their courage in coming forward to seek justice.

He urged other victims of similar crimes not to suffer in silence but to report them, assuring that their voices would be heard and justice pursued vigorously. The case sheds light on the importance of protecting vulnerable children and holding perpetrators of such abuse fully accountable.

Insights and Summary:
The case of Angela Hassan highlights the long-lasting trauma that victims of child abuse endure and the crucial role of the justice system in holding abusers accountable. The leniency shown towards Hassan serves as a reminder of the need for robust measures to safeguard vulnerable children in foster care settings. It is essential for authorities to continue prioritising the protection of children and ensuring that those responsible for their care uphold the highest standards of safety and welfare.


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