Trans rapist who 'robbed' girls of innocence caged for horrific sex attacks

A TRANS woman who carried out a series of horrifying sex attacks on schoolgirls has been jailed for nine years.

- BY JAMES MULHOLLAND

Serenity Francis Johnston, 34, preyed on his victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons, in Livingston, West Lothian, between November 2006 and April 2012.

Johnston - formerly known by the name David - targeted girls aged between eight and 15. The attacks included sexual assaults and rape.

Johnston, of Broxburn, West Lothian, denied any wrongdoing but was convicted on lewd and indecent conduct, rape, and sexual assault charges following a trial at the High Court in Livingston last month.

At the High Court in Edinburgh yesterday, Johnston was jailed by judge Lord Mulholland.

Defence advocate Jonathan Crowe told Lord Mulholland his client takes medication for anxiety and panic attacks, while adding he is in a relationship with a woman and has the support of family members.

But, when passing sentence, Lord Mulholland said the nature of the crimes meant the only appropriate disposal was to send Johnston to prison, adding that he had "robbed" his three victims of their early life innocence and happiness.