Johnstone carer convicted of raping young girl in his care

A man has today, Friday, 24 October, 2025, been convicted of raping a girl who was within his care at a children's home in Johnstone.

Denis Donnell, 47, was convicted of four charges which included sexual assault and rape, following a trial at the High Court in Paisley.

The offences happened over a three-week period in December 2022 and January 2023 and involved a girl who was a resident at the home where Donnell was a care manager.

Donnell was arrested and charged in January 2023 after the victim raised concerns to other members of staff within the home.

Detective Inspector David Hardie said: "Donnell abused his position of trust to carry out horrific offending against a vulnerable girl.

"At a time when she was supposed to be being cared for, he took advantage and committed crimes at a place where she thought she was safe.

"Police Scotland will fully investigate abuse wherever it occurs and whoever the perpetrator is. I'd encourage anyone with concerns about sexual abuse to contact officers or one of our support services who will listen and investigate."