Alan Rutherford, 47, and Julie Allan, 44, are facing jail after admitting neglect that caused two six-year-old children to swallow cocaine in their Motherwell home. The couple appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court and pleaded guilty to five charges of wilful neglect between January 2023 and November 2024.
Details of the neglect
The pair admitted failing to lock the door of their property, which allowed people under the influence of drink and drugs to access the house while the youngsters were present. They also admitted failing to provide adequate food, care and nutrition to the children, and failing to secure their garden.
In addition, they admitted failing to provide proper dental care and maintain medical appointments. Their filthy home exposed the youngsters to a risk of injury and a fire hazard.
Court proceedings
Depute fiscal Connor McIntyre said he would provide full details of the neglect at a future hearing. Eddie Robertson, defending Rutherford, said: "He is aware of the seriousness of the charges which he is accepting."
Sheriff John Hamilton KC deferred sentence on the pair until next month for reports and continued their bail.
