Former Scottish footballer convicted of sexually abusing child in Thailand
Ian Heddle, who used to play for Dunfermline and St Johnstone, pled guilty at the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday
A former Scottish footballer has been convicted of sexually abusing a young girl in Thailand.
61-year-old Ian Heddle, who used to play for Dunfermline and St Johnstone, pled guilty at the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday.
The revelation was made after he was arrested and charged in Scotland in connection with possessing indecent images of children in February 2023.
Detective Inspector Adrian Ure of National Child Abuse Investigations Unit said: “We understand how distressing this has been for the girl and her family. We hope that the knowledge that he has now pled guilty will at least provide some comfort to them.
"Police Scotland is committed to protecting children and were able to pursue Heddle under legislation which protects children anywhere in the world from sexual abuse by British nationals.
“We will continue to relentlessly pursue, and proactively investigate, individuals who carry out these heinous crimes. I would also like to reassure our communities that we will investigate all reports of sexual abuse. You will be listened to, and we will support you.
“I urge anyone who has been the victim of any offence of this nature to contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”