Rutherglen man jailed after victim suffers serious injuries in Shotts home

A man from Rutherglen has been sentenced to 30 months in jail after a brutal assault left a victim with serious injuries in Shotts. William Thomson, 31, admitted to targeting the man at his home in Lansdowne Crescent on May 20 last year. The assault, carried out by Thomson and two other men armed with a baseball bat, was described as “vicious” by the court.

Carla McGuire, the prosecutor, detailed how Thomson and his accomplice attacked the victim in his home over a cash dispute involving the victim’s brother. The victim tried to lock himself in his house but was pursued upstairs where Thomson repeatedly struck him with the baseball bat, causing significant injuries. The victim was left with a head wound requiring 12 staples and two broken fingers.

Thomson’s defence lawyer, Chris Devine, explained that the attack stemmed from a misunderstanding over a non-existent debt, acknowledging that Thomson had targeted an innocent man. Devine also mentioned Thomson’s struggles with drug and alcohol addiction as well as psychological issues from a previous assault.

Sheriff Colin Dunipace, in passing the sentence, condemned Thomson’s actions as a deliberate intent to cause harm. He highlighted Thomson’s history of violence and the severity of the assault, compounded by the fact that Thomson was on bail at the time of the attack. Thomson’s sentence was backdated to account for time spent in custody.

The incident serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of violent actions and the impact they can have on victims. It also underscores the importance of resolving disputes through peaceful and legal means rather than resorting to aggression and harm towards others. Such incidents highlight the need for society to address underlying issues such as drug addiction and mental health challenges that can contribute to such violent behaviour.

In conclusion, the case demonstrates the importance of seeking help and support for individuals dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues to prevent further incidents of violence in our communities. It is essential for individuals to resolve conflicts peacefully and lawfully to ensure the safety and well-being of all.