GEORGE ANDERSON FROM HOWWOOD AND JOHNSTONE SENTENCED FOR DECADES OF ABUSE AND RAPE

In December 2014, a disturbing case concluded at the High Court in Glasgow involving George Anderson, a 63-year-old man from Johnstone, who was found guilty of heinous crimes spanning nearly two decades. Anderson, who once operated a fruit and vegetable shop in Johnstone, was convicted of raping a 14-year-old girl and abusing five other young females over a period of 19 years, from May 1973 to August 1992. The court heard that his criminal activities took place at various addresses in both Johnstone and Howwood, locations where he exploited his position of trust and authority over vulnerable young girls.

During the sentencing, Judge Johanna Johnston QC addressed Anderson directly, emphasizing the gravity of his offenses. She stated, “These crimes were committed on young girls and young women. You exploited your position as a trusted adult. Some of these victims were vulnerable.” The judge highlighted the escalation of Anderson’s misconduct, noting that he eventually raped a young girl and attempted to rape another, actions that left lasting scars on the victims. She further remarked, “This has had a lasting and devastating effect on this young girl. Your criminal conduct has had a devastating effect on your victims.”

Anderson’s actions included raping one victim in the back of a converted ambulance, which he used as a mobile fruit and vegetable selling unit, and sexually abusing another woman with the intent to rape her. Other victims were subjected to inappropriate groping and unwanted sexual advances. Despite the severity of the allegations, Anderson maintained his innocence throughout the trial, claiming that all the victims were fabricating their stories against him.

His arrest and subsequent trial were prompted after one of his victims, a young woman, and her father confronted him at his home. During this confrontation, the victim accused Anderson of raping her, to which he responded, “I’ve been expecting this.” However, during his court appearance, Anderson denied the rape allegations, asserting that the sexual encounters were consensual and that the girl was a willing participant. Advocate depute Jim Keegan QC challenged Anderson’s claims, asking, “Are you so irresistible that a young girl would willingly engage in sexual intercourse with you?” to which Anderson replied, “Yes.”

Further evidence revealed Anderson’s attempt at remorse through a letter of apology he sent in 1973 to a girl he had abused when she was 12 years old. The letter read, “I am so sorry for my behaviour all those years ago. I just hope you can find ways to forgive me.” Anderson admitted to sending the letter but insisted it was unrelated to the sexual abuse. One of his victims described him as a “sleazy, dirty old man,” and recounted how he told her, “I’m going to have you.”

Anderson’s defense team, led by Kevin McCallum, argued that he continued to deny all allegations, citing his health issues, including diabetes and a heart condition. They also highlighted personal tragedies in his life, such as the death of his daughter in a road traffic accident on Boxing Day 1995 and the murder of his son in 2004.

Following the evidence and testimonies, Judge Johnston ordered Anderson to be placed on the sex offenders register and sentenced him to eight years in prison for his crimes. As he was led away, Anderson winked at members of his family, a gesture that underscored the gravity and personal impact of the proceedings. The case has left a lasting mark on the community of Johnstone and Howwood, highlighting the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse and exploitation.