Gabriel Brown, a 35-year-old convicted sex offender, has been found guilty of the murder of Joseph Johnston, 58, in a savage attack that included cannibalism and arson. The High Court in Glasgow heard that Brown stabbed Johnston 22 times in his Annan flat in November 2024, then severed, cooked, and ate his left ring finger. After the attack, Brown set fire to the flat to conceal the crime.
Background and Motivation
Brown, who had never met Johnston before, targeted him because Johnston had previously been in a relationship with Brown's step-mother. Brown believed Johnston had mistreated her, describing the attack as a "punishment." The step-mother had pointed out Johnston's home to Brown and used a derogatory name for him.
Before the murder, Brown consumed alcohol and cannabis. He arrived at Johnston's home late at night, and Johnston let him in. They initially appeared to get along, even taking a selfie together. However, Brown then launched a brutal assault, stabbing Johnston multiple times, carving letters into his face, and cutting off his finger.
Attempt to Conceal the Crime
To cover up the murder, Brown started fires in four areas of the flat, including torching furniture, turning on cooker hobs, and placing metal cutlery in a microwave. He also ripped out smoke alarms to prevent them from sounding. He then fled to his step-mother's home and texted someone, saying "he sleeps forever."
Johnston's body was later discovered in the charred kitchen. Brown was arrested after being found sleeping in his step-mother's attic.
Trial and Defence
During the trial, Brown lodged a special defence of mental disorder, claiming he was possessed by the spirit of 19th-century occultist Aleister Crowley, who told him to "take Ernie's soul." He testified that he had no recollection of stabbing Johnston and attributed the knife's presence to Crowley. Brown stated, "I attribute it to Aleister Crowley. I put it down to possession." He also claimed that consuming the finger was "a favour" to Johnston.
Prosecutor Eric Robertson accused Brown of going to "square up" to Johnston, which Brown denied. The jury rejected Brown's claims and found him guilty after a near two-week trial.
Sentencing and Aftermath
Lord Mulholland deferred sentencing for reports but warned Brown he may never be released. The judge described the attack as "sustained, vicious, and merciless" and noted the carving of initials on Johnston's face as evidence of the savage nature. The judge excused jurors from further service due to the harrowing evidence.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Graeme Robertson stated: "Brown’s actions were completely senseless and reckless and led to the loss of Joseph’s life. He will now face the consequences of his despicable actions." He added that the verdict brings some comfort to Johnston's family.
