CRAIG JOHNSTON FROM EAST KILBRIDE ARRESTED OVER HORRIFIC CHILD AND ANIMAL ABUSE IMAGES

A man named Craig Johnston, residing in East Kilbride, has been linked to a disturbing collection of illegal and deeply troubling images and videos involving the abuse of children and animals. The authorities uncovered an extensive cache of illicit material during a recent investigation, revealing the severity of his involvement in these heinous crimes.

Officers found that Johnston possessed a staggering 350 still images and 188 videos depicting acts of bestiality. These recordings included women engaging in sexual acts with animals such as dogs and horses, showcasing a disturbing pattern of animal abuse. The material was not only graphic but also widespread, indicating a significant engagement with this form of illegal content.

Further examination of Johnston’s digital devices uncovered an even more disturbing aspect of his activities. Police discovered 198 photographs and 193 video clips showing children being molested. Some of these children were as young as three months old, highlighting the depravity involved. The images and videos depicted the most heinous scenarios, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes committed.

In addition to the material stored locally, Johnston was found to have been actively communicating with other online predators. Investigators revealed that he exchanged sickening images and engaged in twisted conversations through social media platforms and messaging services. These interactions demonstrated a network of individuals involved in the sharing and distribution of illegal content, further complicating the case.

When police executed a search warrant at Johnston’s residence in East Kilbride, he cooperated initially, telling officers, "I'll just stop you right there," before allowing them entry. During the search, Johnston admitted to possessing and sharing indecent images. The authorities recovered more than 350 images and 188 videos of bestiality from his devices. Further investigation into his digital footprint uncovered additional disturbing material, including 21 images stored on a WhatsApp account, one of which depicted a young girl.

The police also seized a Samsung A50 smartphone, which Johnston claimed was a work device. However, forensic analysis revealed that the phone contained multiple Category A images of children, aged between 8 and 13, and had been actively involved in sharing illegal content within social media group chats. This evidence pointed to a deliberate and ongoing engagement in the distribution of child abuse material.

Online interactions involving Johnston were also scrutinized. Reports detailed his exchanges with other predators, including sharing images of underage girls and participating in conversations that promoted the exploitation of minors. These interactions underscored the extent of his involvement in a broader network of illegal activity.

Johnston appeared before Hamilton Sheriff Court, where he pleaded guilty to charges of possessing and sharing indecent images of children and animals. Sheriff Alasdair MacFadyen deferred sentencing until next month to allow for further reports and ordered Johnston to be placed on the sex offenders' register. The court emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the need for appropriate measures to protect the public.

His bail was continued, and he was made fully aware of the gravity of the case against him. The investigation confirmed that Johnston had accumulated a significant collection of illegal material, including images of women engaging in sexual acts with animals and children being subjected to abuse. The initial suspicion arose in March 2020 when online agencies flagged activity at his residence. A subsequent police raid recovered a phone containing Category A images of children aged 8 to 13, which had been shared within online groups.

Cyber crime units further examined Johnston’s devices and uncovered the extensive collection of illegal content. The case highlights the disturbing nature of his actions and the serious threat posed by such offenders. Defense attorney Andy Thomson described Johnston as a working man and requested that his bail be maintained to allow for the preparation of reports. The court’s proceedings underscored the gravity of the crimes committed, and Johnston’s name remains associated with one of the most disturbing cases involving child and animal abuse in the East Kilbride area.