BRIAN THOM FROM BEARSEN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN LANARKSHIRE AND CAMBUSLANG

A man described by authorities as 'dangerous and violent' has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 12 years after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences in the Lanarkshire region. Brian Thom, aged 37, was found guilty on a total of 17 charges, which included rape, as well as sexual and physical assaults committed against two women. These heinous acts took place over a span of years, specifically between 2007 and 2021, in the areas of Bearsden and Cambuslang.

Thom's conviction was secured at the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday, August 12, 2024. Following the verdict, he was formally sentenced on the same day to serve 12 years behind bars. Additionally, he was ordered to be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, a measure that underscores the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.

In the wake of his sentencing, Police Scotland has released an image of Brian Thom to the public, aiming to aid in community awareness and safety. Detective Inspector Gary Smillie, from the Lanarkshire Division Public Protection Unit, issued a statement emphasizing the danger Thom represents. He described Thom as a 'dangerous, violent man' who subjected his victims to 'horrendous ordeals.'

Inspector Smillie expressed his support for the victims, praising their resilience and courage in coming forward to report the offences and to participate in the legal process. He conveyed hope that the conclusion of this case would assist the victims in moving forward with their lives. The detective also urged anyone who has experienced physical or sexual abuse, regardless of when the incident occurred, to come forward and report it. He reassured the public that all reports are taken seriously, thoroughly investigated, and that specially trained officers, along with partner agencies, are available to provide support to victims throughout the process.