Man found guilty of campaign of abuse against children in Glasgow and Stirling

James Harris raped one teenager and attacked 4 other children over a decade.

Author: Lesley DiMascioPublished 24th Apr 2023

WARNING: Distressing content

A sex attacker who raped a teenage girl is behind bars.

James Harris was also found guilty of physical or sexual abuse against other children including hitting a two-year old girl with a belt.

The 52 year-old had denied the allegations during a trial at the High Court in Glasgow.

But, Harris, of Thornliebank, East Renfrewshire, was convicted of a total of seven charges spanning between 1999 and 2009.

He raped the teenager in Stirling, which included her being restrained.

Harris also assaulted her by grabbing her by the throat affecting her breathing.

He earlier attacked a young boy in Glasgow and Stirling.

This terrified victim had cigarettes put out on his body as well as being punched, kicked, headbutted and his head held under water.

A toddler meantime was whacked with a belt.

A final girl also suffered similar assault to the young boy. Harris further exposed himself in front of her.

Harris was found guilty of rape, five charges of assault as well as behaving in a lewd and libidinous manner.

HIs lawyer Geoffrey Forbes did not move for bail to be continued.

Judge Norman MacFadyen deferred sentencing for reports until next month.

Hear all the latest news from across Glasgow and the West on the hour, every hour, at Clyde 1. Listen on FM, via our Radio Clyde app, on your DAB radio, online at Clyde1.com, or say ‘Play Clyde 1’ on your Smart Speaker.