Ian Jolly

Ian Jolly, a 70-year-old former youth football coach from Aberdeenshire, has been sentenced to 27 months in prison for a series of serious sexual offences committed against boys under his care in the 1980s and 1990s. Jolly, who was residing in Edinburgh at the time of his sentencing, appeared at Aberdeen Sheriff Court where he pleaded guilty to seven charges involving four young victims.

The court heard that the abuse first came to light when one of Jolly's victims encountered publicity surrounding broader investigations into alleged abuse within the football community. This prompted the victim to come forward, leading to Jolly's arrest and subsequent charges. The offences spanned several years, with one boy enduring abuse over a three-year period starting in 1987. The nature of the crimes included indecent assault, exposing himself to the boys, and performing sexual acts in their presence, all occurring while Jolly held a position of trust as a coach.

Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, representing Grampian, Highlands and Islands, commented on the gravity of the case, stating: "Ian Jolly committed a number of serious sexual offences against boys. Although these crimes took place decades ago, this case, and others like it, show that justice can be achieved after many years." Detective Inspector Mark Lambley from Police Scotland's National Child Abuse Investigation Unit emphasised the ongoing commitment to such investigations, noting that reports of historical abuse are thoroughly pursued regardless of the time elapsed.

The sentencing at Aberdeen Sheriff Court marks a significant outcome in addressing historical child sexual abuse within youth sports organisations in Scotland. Jolly's conviction underscores the importance of victims reporting such crimes, even after prolonged periods, to ensure perpetrators face justice.