IAIN GILLESPIE FROM WEST CALDER CAUGHT WITH SICK CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN WEST LOTHIAN

In April 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving Iain Gillespie, a financial adviser based in West Calder, West Lothian, who was found in possession of a significant collection of indecent images depicting child abuse. The police, acting on a warrant, executed a search at Gillespie’s residence in West Lothian, specifically targeting his home in West Calder. During the search, officers seized a mobile phone from his office, which was later subjected to forensic examination to uncover its contents.

Investigators discovered that the device contained a total of 28 indecent images of young girls, ranging in age from as young as two to 14 years old. These images were classified into three categories, from the most severe, labeled ‘A’, to less severe, labeled ‘C’. The ‘A’ category included images showing children being raped, while the other categories depicted children involved in non-penetrative sexual acts or simply posing naked or partially clothed. The severity and nature of these images underscored the disturbing extent of Gillespie’s possession of such material.

Senior depute fiscal Fraser Matheson confirmed that Gillespie, aged 40 at the time, had no prior criminal convictions. Gillespie pleaded guilty to possessing indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of children at his property located at Torphin Farm, West Calder, between July 29 and September 10, 2015. However, he denied any involvement in taking or allowing the creation of such images during the same period, a denial that the prosecution accepted.

It was also revealed that Gillespie held a position as a director at Harburn Finance Limited, as listed on Companies House. His previous engagements included involvement with the West Calder and Harburn Community Development Trust, indicating his active participation in local community and business activities.

During the court proceedings, Sheriff Peter Hammond addressed Gillespie directly, stating, “Sentence will be deferred so that the court can obtain the various reports that are required here.” The sheriff also reminded Gillespie that, due to his guilty plea to such a serious offence, he would now be subject to the notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003. The case was adjourned until July 9, allowing time for the necessary assessments and reports to be prepared for sentencing.