JOHN GREEN FROM LIVINGSTON ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE HORRIFIC CHILD AND ANIMAL ABUSE IMAGES

In January 2021, a disturbing case emerged involving John Green, a 68-year-old resident of Livingston, who was found to possess a vast and disturbing collection of illegal images and videos depicting child abuse and bestiality. The case drew significant attention due to the severity of the material discovered and the legal proceedings that followed.

Green was found to have a large number of indecent images and videos stored on his personal computer at his home in Livingston. The police investigation revealed that he had accumulated a total of 326 images classified as 'extreme' pornography, which included graphic depictions of sexual assault and abuse. Among these were six videos, some of which contained scenes of sexual violence causing injury to victims, further highlighting the disturbing nature of his collection.

In addition to the extreme material, authorities uncovered more than 2,000 indecent images of children on Green’s device. These images were categorized based on their severity, with 410 images falling into the most serious category, labeled ‘A’. These images depicted children being raped or sexually penetrated, representing the most heinous form of child exploitation. The police also found 501 images in category ‘B’ and 1,204 images in category ‘C’, indicating a wide range of illegal content.

Furthermore, the investigation uncovered videos showing children being sexually abused. Among these, two videos were classified as category ‘A’, and one as category ‘B’. The presence of such material underscores the gravity of Green’s offenses and the potential harm inflicted upon the victims depicted.

John Green, who was identified as a first-time offender, admitted to downloading these indecent images and videos during a period spanning from November 28, 2019, to January 6, 2020, at his residence in West Lothian. Despite the severity of the crimes, Green was not required to appear in court for sentencing. Instead, social workers recommended a community-based alternative to imprisonment, considering his lack of prior convictions.

In sentencing, Sheriff Martin Edington ordered Green to be placed under supervision for a period of three years through a community payback order. The sheriff also mandated that Green’s name would remain on the sex offenders’ register for the same duration, ensuring ongoing monitoring and public safety. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and social services to address and manage individuals involved in the possession of such heinous material, even when they are first-time offenders.