KEVIN JOHNSTON AND LOUISE JOHNSTON SHOCK GALASHIELS WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HATE CAMPAIGN

A woman who was a victim of a sexual assault in Galashiels has come forward to share her ongoing fears and the harassment she has endured since the incident. The assault took place in 2008 at the couple’s flat in the town, where she was babysitting at the time. Kevin Johnston, then 43 years old, was accused of attacking her during that period. Despite denying the allegations, Johnston was convicted of the crime and sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh in 2010.

Since his release from jail, the victim, a 44-year-old support worker and mother of three, claims she has been subjected to a relentless hate campaign orchestrated by Louise Johnston, Kevin’s wife. She reports being verbally abused both in public and online, with Louise allegedly spreading falsehoods and attempting to tarnish her reputation. The woman expressed her fear, stating that she feels unsafe leaving her home, especially at night, due to the ongoing harassment.

In her own words, the victim described the distress caused by Louise Johnston, recounting an incident where Louise screamed in her face, insisting that the assault was consensual. The woman firmly denied this, emphasizing her revulsion towards Kevin Johnston, whom she described as “a horrible, fat, disgusting man” who makes her skin crawl whenever she sees him. She also revealed her frustration at the couple’s attempts to deny the truth and spread lies claiming Johnston’s innocence.

Living in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, the woman said she feels increasingly isolated and frightened, especially since the harassment has intensified following Johnston’s release. Her account highlights the emotional toll of the case, not only from the assault itself but also from the subsequent campaign of intimidation and defamation carried out by the Johnston couple. Her story underscores the ongoing struggles faced by victims of sexual violence and the importance of justice and protection from harassment.