Pensioner Derek Lincoln jailed for historic sexual abuse of two young girls

Derek Lincoln, who is also known as John Green, abused the girls at addresses in Renfrewshire as well as Ayrshire and Lanarkshire from the ages of nine and 11.

The offences took place between 1989 and 1996 while Lincoln was a member of a religious group known as the Children of God.

Following a five year investigation, the 74-year-old was returned to Scotland from France on a European Arrest Warrant.

In July, he pleaded guilty to seven charges including rape and assault.

At the High Court in Glasgow today (Friday), Lincoln was told he must serve 11 years and six months in prison. He was also placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register.

Procurator Fiscal for Sexual Offences, Fraser Gibson said: “The sentencing of Derek Lincoln today marks the end of a complex investigation into historic crimes which took place over a number of years.

“His actions have devastated the lives of his victims. However, it is thanks to their courage and strength that he has now been caught and prosecuted.

“I would encourage victims of sexual crimes, whenever they occurred, to come forward and report them in the confidence they will be treated with professionalism and sensitivity by the police and our expert prosecutors.”

Detective Sergeant Neil Wilson from Police Scotland’s National Rape Task Force, said: “Lincoln used his position within the Children of God to perpetrate violent sexual abuse against two young children. My thoughts continue to remain with the victims and those impacted by Lincoln’s deplorable actions over the many years.

“Thanks to the bravery of the victims in reporting the abuse to police, witness testimonies and the co-operation of international agencies, he is now being forced to face the consequences of his crimes after more than 30 years.

“I hope Lincoln’s conviction and sentencing sends a clear message to sexual offenders that time and borders are no barrier to justice. Police Scotland and our partners are committed to bringing perpetrators before the courts.

“We would encourage anyone with information about sexual offences to report this to Police Scotland via 101, where it will be treated with the utmost seriousness.”