SCOTT FORBES AND GANG SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD SEX ABUSE IN GLASGOW

A disturbing case involving a criminal gang in Glasgow has culminated in the sentencing of several individuals for heinous acts of child sexual abuse and violence. The group operated from a location infamously referred to as "the beasty home," a drug den that became a site of unimaginable cruelty over a span of seven years.

Among those convicted was Scott Forbes, aged 51, who, along with others, was found guilty after a rigorous two-month trial held at Glasgow's High Court. Despite their denials, the jury convicted all members in November 2023. The gang members, including Lesley Williams, 43; Paul Brannan, 42; Barry Watson, 48; John Clark, 49; Iain Owens, 46; and Elaine Lannery, 40, received sentences ranging from eight to twenty years in prison. Additionally, they were all subjected to lifelong restriction orders, severely limiting their future freedoms.

The criminal activities took place within a network of linked apartments in Glasgow, locations frequently visited by drug users. These premises became the setting for what the court described as "rape nights" and "dance and sex nights," where young children, some under the age of 13, were subjected to horrific sexual abuse. The youngest victim, a girl who was so young she wore nappies, recounted her ordeal, describing the apartment as "a dark, creepy beast house." She revealed that she was trapped in a closet filled with boxes and spiders, and at one point, was confined inside an oven and refrigerator, forced to eat dog food as part of the abuse.

Her testimony also detailed the presence of older boys and girls who were exposed to sexual violence, highlighting the widespread nature of the abuse. The gang members reportedly encouraged children to use Class A drugs, further exposing them to dangerous influences and exploitation.

Sentencing reflected the severity of the crimes. Iain Owens received a minimum term of 20 years before parole eligibility, while Elaine Lannery was sentenced to at least 17 years. Paul Brannan was given a minimum of 15 years, and Lesley Williams received 14 years. John Clark was sentenced to a minimum of 10 years, Barry Watson to nine years and six months, and Scott Forbes to eight years, underscoring the gravity of their offenses and the court’s condemnation of their actions.