Convictions in 'monstrous' child sex abuse ring: 7 found guilty in Glasgow trial

In a disturbing revelation, seven members of a paedophile gang, who masqueraded as "witches and wizards," have been convicted for orchestrating a "monstrous" child sex abuse ring within a Glasgow drugs den. Described by the NSPCC as one of the worst cases in recent decades, 11 individuals faced charges related to heinous acts against three primary school-aged children.

The trial, spanning over two months, exposed a harrowing narrative where the young victims were subjected to a disturbing campaign of sexual depravity, including group rapes, while being plied with alcohol and cocaine. These horrifying acts unfolded at various properties between 2010 and 2020, orchestrated by heroin addicts who organised regular gatherings to carry out brutal violence.

The court heard chilling details of "child rape nights," where older children were coerced into abusing a younger child during prolonged attacks. The perpetrators, referencing their location as the "beasty house," shamelessly exchanged money after these heinous sex attacks, some even finding amusement in their vile acts.


The individuals found guilty— Iain Owens, 45, Elaine Lannery, 39, Lesley Williams, 41, Paul Brannan, 41, Scott Forbes, 50, Barry Watson, 47, and John Clark, 46—were convicted of rape and sexual assault. Owens, Lannery, Williams, and Brannan faced additional charges related to attempted murder, while Owens, Williams, and Brannan were also implicated in drug offences.

Marianne Gallagher, convicted of assault, was cleared of other charges, while three others were acquitted of all charges. The grim sentencing, presided over by Judge Lord Beckett, is scheduled for January 4 at the High Court in Glasgow, marking the culmination of a trial that brought to light the horrors of a monstrous child sex abuse ring.