PAUL BRANNAN AND GANG SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD SEX ABUSE IN GLASGOW'S BEASTY HOME

A disturbing case of child sexual abuse has culminated in the conviction and sentencing of a notorious gang operating within Glasgow. The group, which exploited a drug den infamously known as "the beasty home," subjected three children under the age of 13 to unimaginable horrors over a span of seven years. This heinous abuse took place in a setting that was supposed to be a refuge but instead became a place of terror and violence.

Following a comprehensive two-month trial held at Glasgow's High Court, the gang members were found guilty in November 2023 despite their persistent denial of all allegations. The group included Lesley Williams, aged 43; Paul Brannan, aged 42; Scott Forbes, aged 51; Barry Watson, aged 48; John Clark, aged 49; Iain Owens, aged 46; Elaine Lannery, aged 40; and Lesley Williams, aged 43. All were sentenced to serve prison terms ranging from eight to twenty years, with additional lifelong restriction orders imposed to prevent any future contact with minors.

The criminal activities centered around a series of depraved gatherings held in apartments linked to the drug scene in Glasgow. These events, euphemistically called "rape nights" and "dance and sex nights," were attended by drug users and involved the systematic sexual exploitation of vulnerable children. The youngest victim, a girl who was still wearing nappies, recounted her traumatic experiences, describing the apartment as "a dark, creepy beast house." She revealed that she was trapped in a closet filled with boxes and spiders, and was subjected to further abuse by being confined inside an oven and refrigerator. During her ordeal, she was forced to eat dog food, highlighting the extreme cruelty inflicted upon her.

In addition to the youngest victim, older boys and girls were also subjected to sexual violence, with the gang encouraging children to use Class A drugs as part of their manipulation and control. The abuse was systematic and pervasive, with the gang members actively promoting drug use among minors to facilitate their depraved activities.

Sentencing details revealed that Iain Owens received a minimum term of 20 years before parole eligibility, while Elaine Lannery was sentenced to at least 17 years. Paul Brannan was given a minimum of 15 years, and Lesley Williams received 14 years. John Clark was sentenced to a minimum of 10 years, Barry Watson to nine years and six months, and Scott Forbes to eight years. These sentences reflect the severity of their crimes and the impact on the victims, as justice was served for the horrific abuse that took place within the shadows of Glasgow's criminal underworld.