Abuse victim's courage praised by children's charity

Ledbetter (51), a former US marine, was jailed yesterday after being convicted at Glasgow High Court of the abuse of two boys and a girl.

The crimes were carried out in Scotland and the US over a 14-year-period

A spokesman from NSPCC Scotland said: “This horrific campaign of abuse will have had long-lasting effects on Ledbetter’s victims and it is right that he is now facing the consequences of his actions.

“It was the bravery of one of the victims who came forward that has resulted in his Ledbetter’s conviction.

“This case shows, once again, that it is vital that victims are listened to, believed and supported when they contact the authorities to report past abuse.

“Sexual crimes against children are offences of the utmost seriousness and this sentence sends out a strong message that it will not be tolerated.”

Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000, while young people can contact Childline on 0800 1111.