Teacher found guilty of sexual offences against 14 teen boys

A teacher has been found guilty of numerous sexual offences against 14 teenage boys.

Martin Gallacher was convicted on Wednesday following a trial at Paisley Sheriff Court.

The 46-year-old’s offending took place over the course of nine years, between March 2015 and June 2024, while he worked as a teacher.

Police described Gallacher as a “depraved individual who abused his position of trust to target his victims.”

Detective inspector David Hardie thanked Gallacher’s victims for coming forward to help bring the “despicable” teacher to justice.

He said: “I commend those who came forward and reported the abuse and for the strength they showed throughout the trial. Their evidence was instrumental in bringing this despicable individual to justice.

“My thoughts remain with them as Gallacher faces the consequences of his actions, and I hope his conviction allows them and their families to move forward with their lives.

“Police Scotland takes all reports of sexual abuse seriously, regardless of the passage of time.

“I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual crime to report it to us. Your report will be treated sensitively, we will listen, and crimes will be investigated thoroughly.”