ERSKINE MAN WILLIAM REID CAUGHT WITH CHILD SEX ABUSE VIDEOS AND IMAGES IN SCOTLAND

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Erskine, William Reid, aged 33, has been found in possession of numerous indecent images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. The police investigation was initiated after authorities received credible intelligence concerning the possession of such illicit material, leading to a targeted search of Reid’s family home in Erskine.

On the morning of August 27, 2019, at approximately 8:45 am, officers from the police force, armed with a search warrant, arrived at Reid’s residence. The warrant was issued following a tip-off from child protection officers working within the Renfrewshire area. The police were granted access to the property by Reid’s father, who was present at the scene. Other family members were also in the house during the search.

William Reid returned home from work just minutes before the officers began their systematic search. The police focused their efforts on electronic devices capable of storing images and videos. During the search, two Hewlett-Packard laptops were recovered from the loft area of the house, which was being used by Reid as a bedroom. The search concluded around 11:10 am, after which Reid was arrested and transported to Govan Police Station for further questioning.

Subsequent forensic analysis of the two laptops, which were used exclusively by Reid, revealed the presence of multiple indecent images and videos of children. Investigators identified a specific email address associated solely with Reid on the devices, confirming his sole access to the material. The analysis uncovered a total of 23 images classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of indecency, along with nine images at Category B and 21 images at Category C. Additionally, cybercrime officers discovered one video at Category B and another at Category C, both depicting child abuse.

William Reid appeared before Paisley Sheriff Court, where he pleaded guilty to possessing indecent images of children between October 11, 2018, and August 27, 2019. The court was informed that Reid’s actions constituted a serious breach of trust and safety. Sheriff Colin Pettigrew ordered that the case be adjourned to assess the risks posed by Reid and confirmed that, due to the gravity of the offence, he would be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.