WILLIAM BURNS FROM LOCHEND SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AT HIBS SUPPORTERS CLUB IN EDINBURGH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, William Burns, a man with a known criminal history, was sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy at the Hibernian Football Supporters Club in Edinburgh.

The incident occurred on February 7th of this year, during a period when the supporters club was hosting a screening of an Edinburgh derby match. Burns, aged 58, followed the young boy—who has learning difficulties—into the toilets and carried out the assault. The young victim was vulnerable and targeted by Burns in a moment of apparent opportunity.

Following the attack, Burns was questioned by police. During his interview, he claimed, “I heard a kid got tampered with in the toilets, but I’m not guilty,” a statement that did little to sway the court’s judgment. His admission of sexual assault was made during his appearance at the High Court in Edinburgh, where he faced serious charges.

The presiding judge did not hold back in condemning Burns’ actions. He stated, “You have pled guilty to an appalling offence. For your own sexual gratification, you have preyed upon a young child and subjected him to a horrendous ordeal.” The court heard that Burns’ behavior was not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of predatory conduct.

Michael O’Grady QC, representing the prosecution, emphasized the gravity of the case, noting that the circumstances surrounding the attack suggested Burns had little control over his urges. He described Burns as “a predatory and dangerous individual,” highlighting the threat he posed to children and the wider community.

The judge further expressed concern about Burns’ ongoing risk to public safety, especially to children. As a result, he ordered that Burns be subject to supervision for an additional four years after his release, underscoring the seriousness with which the court viewed his potential for future harm.

This case has brought to light the dangers faced by vulnerable children in community settings and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding young individuals from predators like William Burns, whose actions have left a lasting scar on the community of Lochend and beyond.