Seven people jailed for a total of 93 years for sexually abusing children in the Glasgow area

Five men and two women have been given Orders for Lifelong Restrictions and jailed for a total of 93 years for sexually abusing children in the Glasgow area.

At the High Court in Glasgow on Monday, 27 January, 2025 Iain Owens, 46, was jailed for 20 years, Elaine Lannery, 40, for 17 years, Scott Forbes, 51, for eight years, Barry Watson, 48, for nine and a half years, Lesley Ann Williams, 42, for 14 years, Paul Brannan, 42, for 15 years, and John Clark, 48, for 10 years.

They were convicted in November 2023 following an eleven-week trial at the High Court in Glasgow.

The offences took place between 2012-2019 and were reported to police in June 2019. Following an extensive investigation, eleven individuals were arrested and charged in October 2020.

Detective Inspector Lesley-Ann McGee said: “I hope today’s outcome can help the young victims in moving forward.

“This was a long, complex and challenging investigation for a team of officers and staff who had to work through the most harrowing evidence to bring those responsible for these despicable crimes to justice.

“Since the investigation began we’ve worked closely with a range of partners in Social Work, Health, Education, Crown Office and the third-sector to protect and support the victims.

“We remain committed to supporting victims of sexual crime and protecting children from harm and abuse. We will use all available resources to find and arrest the abusers, no matter how much time has passed. I would urge anyone who is a victim of abuse to speak to police in the knowledge you will be listened to, taken seriously and fully supported.”