Priest Found Guilty of Sexual Assault After Night Out
Father Stephen Baillie, a 61-year-old priest with 36 years of service, has been convicted of sexually assaulting a businessman following a night out together. The assault occurred at a church house in Renfrewshire, where Baillie abused his victim while the man was heavily intoxicated and unable to consent.
Swift Jury Verdict and Judicial Warning
The jury at Paisley Sheriff Court took less than two hours to find Baillie guilty of the single charge against him, which he had denied. Sheriff Eoin McGinty immediately warned the priest that he faces a lengthy prison term when he returns for sentencing next month.
Sheriff McGinty emphasized the seriousness of the offence, stating: "The ordinary sentence for this kind of offence is a period of imprisonment – and a pretty lengthy one at that." He called for background reports to be prepared ahead of sentencing, noting that as a first offender, Baillie's fate depends on these assessments.
Bail Granted and Sex Offender Registration
Baillie, who served at St Joseph's Church in Clarkston and other churches in Eaglesham, Paisley, and Greenock, was released on bail until sentencing. The court also placed him on the sex offenders register, with the exact duration to be determined at his sentencing hearing.
The trial revealed disturbing details about the June 2024 incident. The victim became physically ill after Baillie attempted to perform a sex act on him following their night out. Baillie, of Glasgow, declined to comment as he left the courtroom after the conviction.
Diocese Response and Safeguarding Procedures
A spokesman for the Diocese of Paisley acknowledged the conviction, describing it as "behaviour incompatible with the standards expected of ordained ministry." The diocese noted that the offence was reported directly to Police Scotland by the complainant, and they were not approached prior to the investigation.
The spokesman clarified: "As the complainer was not identified as a child or vulnerable adult, the case does not fall within the Church's safeguarding procedures as defined under national safeguarding policy." Nevertheless, the diocese commended the courage of those who came forward to report the matter and participate in what they described as a long and painful process.
Sheriff McGinty allowed Baillie to put his affairs in order before sentencing, which is scheduled for next month. The case has highlighted serious concerns about conduct within religious institutions and the legal consequences for such violations.
