A MAN with at least 53 previous convictions sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl on a train, a court has year.

Frank McGachy previously admitted putting his hand on the girl's leg and touching her inner thigh over her clothing on the journey from Singer station to Dumbarton East station.

In the January 24 incident, the 38-year-old then exposed his private parts while at Dumbarton East and shouted, placing people at the station in a state of ear and alarm.

Dumbarton Sheriff Court last week heard McGachy had a lengthy criminal history down to abusing drugs and alcohol.

His defence solicitor, Tom Brown, admitted it was difficult to distinguish how much was caused by one or the other.

He noted social workers said McGachy, of Whitecrook Street, should be considered for a drug treatment and testing order (DTTO).

Sheriff Maxwell Hendry agreed to order the assessment but pointed out McGachy had "something like 53 previous convictions".

He added: "This cannot carry on."

McGachy was ordered to return to court on June 2 once a DTTO report is prepared.