Morris Petch

Morris Petch, aged 50, was sentenced to life imprisonment at Edinburgh High Court for his role in a paedophile gang that subjected two young girls to repeated sexual abuse and rape over 12 years. The attacks began when the victims were less than 10 years old, with Petch convicted of raping both girls, who are now aged 25 and 26.

The court heard harrowing details of the abuse, which was described by Judge Lord Malcolm as 'grave and disgraceful crimes towards young and vulnerable children'. Petch, who denied involvement throughout a three-day trial earlier in 2007, showed no remorse, as confirmed by a forensic psychologist's assessment. The judge noted Petch's denial of his crimes and his inability to control his 'deviant desires', highlighting his previous conviction for a similar offence and deeming him a serious risk to the public.

The gang's activities included abuse in various locations, such as a house in Edinburgh where one victim, Dana Fowley, now 26, was raped from the age of six. Ms Fowley, the daughter of co-defendant Caroline Dunsmore, waived her right to anonymity and gave evidence in court, stating that being raped had become 'a way of life' for her. Both victims had contemplated suicide due to the trauma inflicted.

Petch's sentencing followed admissions by other gang members. Caroline Dunsmore, 43, received 12 years for her role, including abusing her own daughter, while John O'Flaherty, 50, was sentenced to 13 years for his part in the 1990 abuse in a caravan in Perthshire and earlier incidents. The prime mover, William King, Ms Fowley's stepfather, died before trial. Dunsmore testified against Petch, contributing to his conviction.

Outside court, Ms Fowley expressed relief that the case was over and satisfaction with the sentence, appealing for privacy. The Guardian reported on the case on 11 August 2007, underscoring the long-term damage caused by such predatory behaviour within organised groups targeting children.