IAN OWENS AND GANG SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD SEX ABUSE IN GLASGOW

A disturbing case of child sexual abuse involving a notorious gang operating in Glasgow has culminated in the sentencing of several individuals, including Ian Owens, for their heinous crimes. The gang, which operated out of a drug den infamously referred to as "the beasty home," subjected three children under the age of 13 to a prolonged period of sexual violence and brutality spanning over seven years.

Following a comprehensive two-month trial at Glasgow's High Court, the jury found all members guilty in November 2023, despite their persistent denials of the allegations. The convicted individuals include Lesley Williams, aged 43; Paul Brannan, aged 42; Scott Forbes, aged 51; Barry Watson, aged 48; John Clark, aged 49; Ian Owens, aged 46; Elaine Lannery, aged 40; and Lesley Williams, aged 43. They have all been sentenced to serve prison terms ranging from eight to twenty years, with additional lifelong restriction orders imposed to prevent any future contact or influence.

The gang's criminal activities involved orchestrating what they called "rape nights" and "dance and sex nights" within interconnected apartments in Glasgow, locations frequently visited by drug users. These gatherings became sites of unimaginable horror, where vulnerable children were exploited and assaulted. One young girl, who was so small she wore nappies at the time, vividly described her ordeal, recalling the apartment as "a dark, creepy beast house." She recounted being trapped in a closet filled with boxes of spiders, and being confined inside an oven and refrigerator, where she was forced to eat dog food as part of her abuse.

The abuse was not limited to the youngest victims; older boys and girls were also subjected to sexual violence, with the gang encouraging children to use Class A drugs to further manipulate and control them. The severity of the crimes was reflected in the sentencing, with Ian Owens receiving a minimum term of 20 years before parole eligibility. Elaine Lannery was sentenced to at least 17 years, Paul Brannan to 15 years, and Lesley Williams to 14 years. John Clark received a minimum of 10 years, Barry Watson was sentenced to nine years and six months, and Scott Forbes to eight years.

This case highlights the disturbing extent of child exploitation in Glasgow and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to bring justice to the victims. The sentences serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences faced by those who commit such heinous acts against the most vulnerable members of society.