Coatbridge man feared giving evidence against violent duo

brutal attack from brothers

- MIKE MCQUAID

The grieving family of a young Coatbridge man who took his own life are blaming his death on two convicted rapists who put him through a “terrifying” abduction.

Nathan Dawson had told relatives he feared the prospect of giving evidence against brothers Craig and Daniel Gallacher in court.

The 20-year-old took his life three weeks before a trial was due to take place.

Craig Gallacher, 41, was jailed for 47 months earlier this month, while 30-year-old Daniel got 32 months.

The pair admitted abducting Nathan in Coatbridge on December 14 last year.

Airdrie Sheriff Court heard they bundled the landscaper into a car and drove to a remote spot seven miles away where Daniel Gallacher beat him repeatedly with a wrench.

They then drove away, leaving their injured victim behind to seek help.

Jailing Craig Gallacher, Sheriff Tony McGlennan said the pair had “snatched” Nathan from the street in a “premeditated and calculating” way and “very sinister” threats had been made.

The sheriff added: “When he was put in the rear of the car he was effectively your prisoner. It was impossible for him to escape.

“He would not have known where he was to be taken and must have been terrified, fearful for his life.

“It would have caused him significant mental anguish and it’s clear the abduction continued to consume Nathan's thoughts at the time of his death.