MUSSELBURGH PENSIONER WALTER BUCHANAN CONVICTED OF CHILD SEX ABUSE AND FACING JAIL TIME

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Musselburgh, a 65-year-old pensioner named Walter Buchanan has been convicted of sexually abusing two young girls over a period of twelve months. The abuse took place between August 2007 and September 2008 at an address within Musselburgh, a town known for its close-knit community and scenic surroundings.

During a hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh, it was revealed that Buchanan, a widower, targeted two girls aged 14 and 11. The court was informed that Buchanan used threats to silence his victims, warning them that 'bad things' would happen if they disclosed their ordeal to any adults. Despite these threats, the courage of the young girls prevailed, and they eventually confided in their family about the abuse they endured at Buchanan’s hands.

The court heard that detectives swiftly responded to the reports and arrested Buchanan, who had no prior criminal record. His arrest followed an incident where he arranged to meet police officers at his local police station, an act that led to his immediate detention. Buchanan, residing on Windsor Park in Musselburgh, pleaded guilty to three charges of sexual assault before Judge Lord Bracadale. The judge deferred sentencing, scheduling a hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on August 16, 2012.

During the proceedings, Lord Bracadale issued a stern warning to Buchanan, stating, 'The accused should come to court expecting to receive a custodial sentence.' The defense solicitor, John Scott QC, indicated that he would provide an explanation for Buchanan’s behavior at the upcoming Glasgow hearing, leaving the community and the victims awaiting the final judgment with anticipation and concern.