STEPHEN GORTON PERTH SCOUT LEADER GUILTY OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT WITH TEENAGERS

A prominent figure within the Perth scouting community has been convicted of serious sexual misconduct involving teenage boys. Stephen Gorton, who served as a leader for the West Perth Explorer Scouts, was found guilty after a detailed two-day trial held at Perth Sheriff Court. The court heard disturbing evidence of Gorton's inappropriate communications and advances towards minors, which have now led to his placement on the sex offenders register.

During the trial, it was revealed that Gorton, aged 58, engaged in a pattern of sending explicit messages and selfies to teenage boys, some as young as 15. One victim recounted that Gorton told him he would be the “perfect boyfriend” and inquired if he was feeling horny, even urging him to meet at a city bottle bank. The court was shown evidence of Gorton sending a photo of a bulge in his trousers, accompanied by comments indicating he found the boy attractive.

Another young person testified that Gorton sent a topless selfie, describing it as “kinda nice,” and also shared a photograph of himself in the bath. These messages and images were part of a series of inappropriate exchanges that caused significant concern among the victims and the community.

Gorton, a married father of two, denied the allegations, claiming that the boys had conspired to frame him. Despite his denials, the court found the evidence against him compelling. Sheriff Alison McKay expressed her belief in the credibility of the victims, who were aged 15 and 16 at the time of the incidents. She criticized Gorton’s own testimony, describing it as “quite frankly incredible, implausible and self-serving.”

It is noteworthy that Gorton was recognized for his service within the Scouts, receiving the Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service in 2022. However, this recognition has been overshadowed by the recent conviction.

Following the verdict, Gorton was sentenced to a series of penalties designed to restrict his contact with minors and monitor his behavior. He was ordered to undergo two years of supervision and placed under a four-month restriction of liberty order. Additionally, he must adhere to conduct requirements, including restrictions on his use of phones and the internet. Gorton is prohibited from joining any new groups or having contact with individuals under 18 without prior approval from his supervising officer. His name will remain on the sex offenders register for five years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities and compliance with the court’s orders.