John Porteous was found to have targeted the victims between 1966 and 1972 while employed as a houseparent at Quarriers Village in Bridge of Weir, Renfrewshire. 

The 92-year-old was deemed unfit to be criminally tried or to appear in court following independent medical assessment.  

Following an examination of facts at Greenock Sheriff Court, the sheriff ruled that Porteous had abused the children.  

Two charges of indecent assault and lewd, indecent and libidinous practices and behaviour were found to be established. 

Procurator fiscal Anne Marie Hicks said: “The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service consistently strives to secure justice for those affected by abuse.   

“John Porteous exploited his position of authority at the Quarriers Village to sexually abuse vulnerable young boys.  

“This examination of facts is a public airing of the evidence and an acknowledgement that what happened to these children in the past was criminal.  It should never have happened.

“It is now a matter of public record that Porteous committed these offences. 

“The court’s finding also sends a clear message to abusers: no matter who you are, when the abuse happened or how long after the event it is reported, there will be a robust response from Scotland’s prosecutors.”

The court had previously determined that the accused was not fit to stand trial and ordered an examination of facts, where the procurator fiscal depute and the defence led evidence, which was tested before a sheriff.   

Following the ruling on 9 September 2025, Porteous’s name has now been added to the sex offenders register for five years.