Police have said domestic abuse victims should not suffer in silence after the jailing of an Angus man for offences committed more than 40 years ago.
John Forson Higgins was sent to prison for 28 months after admitting a catalogue of offences against his family, stretching as far back as 1975 and lasting for almost three decades.
Higgins’ offences took place at houses and caravans in Dundee, Angus, Perthshire and Aberdeen, beginning in December 1975 with offences against his wife which lasted until 2004.
During that prolonged period he frequently assaulted her by pushing, kicking and punching her, grabbed her throat and threw objects including eggs and keys at her.
His offending also included violence against family members from the age of just two up to 24, when he hit and punched them, as well as using a belt during his violent outbursts,
Higgins, 60, appeared on indictment before Sheriff Gregor Murray at Forfar where he admitted four counts of historical domestic violence and was jailed for seven months on each charge.
In the wake of the sentence, an investigating officer praised the victims for their bravery in the harrowing case and said it is hoped that will serve as an indication to others that any allegation of historical violence or abuse will be fully investigated.
Detective Constable Susan Wales said: “This was a protracted police investigation carried out by the officers from the Public Protection Unit in Angus.
“Higgins’ behaviour towards members of his family was both violent and prolonged having continued over a number of years.
‘I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the victims who came forward, assisted the police with their enquiries and gave evidence at court.
“I hope that Higgins conviction will help in bringing closure for them so that they can now move on with their lives.”
DC Wales added: “This case again underlines that any form of abuse is not acceptable and that Police Scotland will robustly investigate all violent and abusive crimes, ensuring that we keep people safe.
“We would encourage anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse or child abuse, whether recent or historical, to come forward.
“There is help and support available.”
