JAMES SIMPSON FROM ANNIESLAND AND BEARSDEN CAUGHT WITH OVER 20,000 INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN AND ANIMALS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Anniesland and Bearsden, police uncovered a vast collection of illegal and highly disturbing images at the home of James Simpson, a 58-year-old resident of Anniesland. The investigation revealed that Simpson possessed more than 20,000 indecent images, including some of the most heinous and sexually explicit material involving infants and animals.

Authorities acted on credible intelligence indicating that illegal content was stored at Simpson’s residence in Bearsden. On the morning of January 10, 2017, police officers executed a search warrant at his property, specifically targeting his home on Campsie Drive. The search was methodical, and during the operation, officers recovered three electronic devices from Simpson’s office located in the garden area of the property. Simpson himself confirmed ownership and usage of these devices when questioned by the officers.

During the investigation, Simpson reportedly told officers, “Give that to your cyber boys because that’s what you are looking for,” indicating a recognition of the illegal content stored on his devices. An in-depth analysis of the devices revealed a staggering total of 20,773 indecent images, which included both still photographs and videos. Many of these images were classified as Category A, representing the most severe level of illegal content, with others falling into Category B and C classifications. The content was so disturbing that the court was advised not to print detailed descriptions of the images.

Simpson appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last Tuesday, where he faced charges related to the possession of these indecent images. He pleaded guilty to possessing the images between July 28, 2012, and January 10, 2017, at his former residence in Bearsden. His plea to a separate charge involving extreme pornographic images, depicting sexual acts between humans and animals, was accepted by the Crown, and he entered a not guilty plea to that specific charge.

Throughout the proceedings, Simpson’s legal representative, QC Janice Green, highlighted that he had no prior criminal record and had cooperated fully with authorities once the investigation was underway. She also noted that Simpson had voluntarily sought behavioral therapy at his own expense to address his issues. Additionally, it was mentioned that Simpson was in the process of settling his financial affairs and was separated from his wife.

Judge William Gallacher deferred sentencing until November 16 to allow for a criminal justice social work report to be prepared. Simpson’s bail was continued, but the judge issued a stern warning, stating, “You have pleaded guilty to a very serious charge and I will consider all the options before me after I read the report. Do not take that as a guarantee that you will retain your liberty.” The case remains ongoing as authorities continue to assess the full extent of Simpson’s actions and the appropriate legal response.