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It has come to light that Renfrewshire Council failed to notify authorities when the original complaint against Gallacher was made, allowing him to continue teaching. During the trial held at Paisley Sheriff Court, it was revealed that the initial complainant left the school because their concerns were not believed, while Gallacher remained in his position. As news of the assault spread throughout the school and local community, additional victims stepped forward.
The court was told that Gallacher had been grooming and abusing vulnerable children for more than ten years. His targets were primarily found in his classroom as well as during extracurricular activities such as lunch breaks, badminton, and football clubs that he ran at the school. Having been convicted on 14 charges, the 46-year-old now faces a significant prison term.
Renfrewshire Council announced that it is commissioning an independent learning review into the handling of the case. A representative expressed regret for the impact of Gallacher’s actions on the victims, stating, “The safety and wellbeing of our pupils is of the utmost importance to us. Wellbeing support is being offered to everyone affected by his actions.” They also confirmed that a complaint regarding Gallacher’s behavior was first received in October 2024 but no action was taken at the time due to a lack of sufficient evidence. Following the court’s verdict, the council said it had initiated a review involving the police, healthcare providers, and multiple agencies.
In court, a fellow teacher gave evidence in Gallacher’s defense, describing him as “the perfect teacher” and noting that he had previously received a “best teacher” award. Gallacher denied any misconduct, asserting that any physical contact with boys was innocent and incidental to his roles as a teacher, club organiser, or football coach. However, the court heard that he targeted victims during lessons or when they were alone, also contacting some via messaging and gaming platforms, and giving gifts and money. It was revealed he touched children on their bodies inappropriately. Gallacher, who said he had “mild cerebral palsy,” admitted to touching boys’ shoulders or legs but insisted these actions were not sexual in intent, explaining that he sometimes touched shoulders to steady himself due to his unsteadiness.
After Gallacher’s conviction, prosecutor Jason Stark requested Sheriff Eoin McGinty to consider imposing a sexual harm prevention order restricting Gallacher’s activities, along with non-harassment orders to prevent contact with the victims. Sheriff McGinty remarked that Gallacher had exploited the vulnerability of the children, acting in a manipulative and predatory manner. Gallacher was remanded in custody and is scheduled for sentencing the following month
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