Victim sues Aberdeen Council after abuse by foster carer William Morrice in the 1980s. Council allegedly ignored warnings.
Doctors said he couldn’t stand trial then. A sheriff said the abuse happened, hearing five survivors. Now, one victim got money from Aberdeen City Council. She argued they ignored warnings that could have protected her. She feels relieved to be heard after many years.
She thinks the justice system failed victims like her. Morrice faced no real punishment for his actions. Survivors had to relive painful memories, though. The civil action aimed to hold those in power accountable.
She learned that organizations try to limit fairness. She was shocked that her happiness penalized her claim. She thinks the system needs review for fair justice. She hopes her case helps others and holds the council accountable.
The court ruled Morrice abused five children. The children were between four and fifteen years old then. This abuse happened in the 1970s and 80s. The court reached this decision in July 2024.
Morrice faced charges in 2022 first. His injured foot delayed the proceedings, though. When the case restarted, he couldn’t stand trial. The council allegedly ignored a warning from a social worker.
The social worker reported Morrice in 1983. Another child complained about his treatment. The council did not act on this information. This settlement is the first of many claims. Richard Pitts leads civil actions for Morrice’s victims.
Pitts praised the bravery of those who spoke out. He hopes their courage inspires other people to come forward. Solicitors help within the law’s framework. He hopes his client has found some comfort. He aims to secure rightful outcomes for survivors.