Seven Convicted in Gruesome Scottish Child Abuse Ring, Sentenced to Up to 20 Years
January 27, 2025
Co-accused Marianne Gallagher, found guilty of assaulting a child, received no punishment but was warned of severe consequences for any future offenses.
The court heard that during this period, three children were repeatedly sexually assaulted, with the abusers consuming drugs in front of them and forcing them to partake in substance abuse.
All seven convicted received lifelong restriction orders, indicating they may never be released if deemed unsuitable after serving their sentences.
The sentences varied, with Iain Owens receiving 20 years, Elaine Lannery 17 years, Paul Brannan 15 years, and others receiving terms ranging from eight to 14 years.
The trial, which lasted about eight weeks, revealed systematic child sexual abuse and was described as harrowing by the judge.
Sentencing was delayed until December 2023 to conduct necessary risk assessments, with lifelong monitoring ordered for the offenders due to the severity of their crimes.
While allegations of witchcraft were made by child complainants, the court ultimately focused on the severe sexual and physical abuse the children endured.
Judge Lord Beckett characterized the crimes as 'extraordinary depravity,' emphasizing the severe and lasting impact on the child victims.
Seven individuals have been convicted for their involvement in a horrific child abuse ring in Scotland, receiving prison sentences ranging from eight to twenty years.
The group was found guilty of gang-raping a child and subjecting other children to severe abuse in a Glasgow drugs den between 2012 and 2019.
Among the most shocking details, one baby was placed in a microwave, forced to eat dog food, and hung from a nail, highlighting the extreme depravity of the offenders.
An allegation regarding the use of a Ouija board to manipulate child victims was dropped during the trial, which also included Gallagher.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jan 27, 2025
Scottish child abuse gang members jailed for between eight and 20 years
The Independent • Jan 27, 2025
Four members of Glasgow child abuse ring tried to murder girl by pushing her in microwave
The Mirror • Jan 27, 2025
Devil mask child sex abuse ring get life sentences for 'extraordinary depravity'
The Mirror • Jan 27, 2025
Devil mask child sex ring's crimes from baby in microwave to 'demon witchcraft'