Tag for drug addict who bought alcohol for 13-year-old girl

A drug addict who bought alcohol from a Dunfermline shop for a 13-year-old girl has been sentenced in court.

William Strathearn bought a carry-out for the girl and her friends after she gave him £10.

Police were contacted when the young group were seen drinking in the street near Dunfermline bus station.

The incident led to William Strathearn, 39, of Leas Park Road, appearing for sentencing at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

He previously admitted that on March 3, at the News Express shop in Pilmuir Street, he bought alcohol for a girl then aged 13 years. He also admitted to being in possession of heroin.

Depute fiscal Azrah Yousaf said: “The matter came to light because there was a group of young people loitering about in the area consuming alcohol.

“This was reported to the police.

“An officer spoke to the girl and she said an adult had purchased it. She gave him £10 and he bought the alcohol.

“The accused was traced from CCTV.”

When spoken to by officers, Strathearn told police: “I’m sorry. I didn’t know she was that age.”

Defence solicitor Ian Beatson said his client was a long-time heroin addict but said Strathearn knew he had done wrong.

Of the alcohol purchase, Mr Beatson said: “He was approached by the girl and thought she was maybe 17.

“He didn’t realise how young she was.

“He appreciates it was a stupid thing to do.”

Sheriff Charles MacNair told Strathearn: “You have an appalling record.”

He imposed a restriction of liberty order for 120 days.