ARCHIBALD SHAW FROM ARDROSSAN SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN KILMARNOCK AND NEWTON STEWART

In a case that has shocked the community, pensioner Archibald Shaw, aged 81 and residing in Ardrossan, has been sentenced to a total of seven years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against young children over three decades ago. The crimes took place in the towns of Kilmarnock and Newton Stewart between the years 1982 and 1990, revealing a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that has only now come to light.

During the proceedings at the High Court in Glasgow, it was made clear that Shaw maintains his innocence, refusing to accept the guilt that the court found to be overwhelmingly supported by the evidence presented. Despite his denial, Judge Bill Dunlop QC emphasized the severity of the case, stating that the evidence against Shaw was irrefutable. The judge described Shaw’s actions as an “appalling catalogue of perverted, predatory behaviour” directed at two vulnerable children, whose childhoods were stolen and whose adult lives have been profoundly affected by his actions.

Judge Dunlop expressed his disbelief that Shaw, while committing these acts, did not consider the possibility that the victims, once grown, might seek justice. He remarked that such behaviour was incomprehensible and condemned Shaw’s actions as deeply damaging. The judge also noted that, had Shaw not been of advanced age, he would have imposed a longer sentence. As part of his punishment, Shaw was ordered to register as a sex offender for life.

It is important to note that Shaw’s current seven-year sentence is set to commence after he completes a 21-month sentence for stalking a 15-year-old girl. His legal representative, solicitor advocate John Keenan, highlighted Shaw’s health issues, specifically a heart condition, and expressed doubt that Shaw expected to be released from custody. The victims, now in their 40s, came forward after hearing on the radio about Shaw’s conviction for stalking, which prompted them to report the abuse they endured.

Prosecutor Paul Brown pointed out that Shaw has a history of sexual offences against children, adding weight to the case against him. Shaw was convicted on eight charges, including rape, with many of the offences occurring in a caravan setting. Evidence revealed that Shaw would often intoxicate his young victims with alcohol and force them to watch pornographic videos before abusing them. The abuse was not limited to childhood; Shaw raped his 11-year-old victim on multiple occasions when she was between 16 and 19 years old. Shaw claimed that he had consensual sex with her once she turned 16, but the jury did not believe his account.

Victims testified that Shaw’s threats and manipulation had a lasting impact, with one stating, “He said if we ever told what had happened to us we would be taken away from our families.” The case has been widely supported by organizations such as NSPCC Scotland, which praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward. A spokesperson for the charity emphasized that the sentence sends a clear message that child abuse will not be tolerated, regardless of when the offences occurred, and expressed hope that this case will encourage others to speak out about their experiences, knowing they will be listened to and supported.