Former Children’s Panel boss charged with sexually abusing kids over two decades

A FORMER Children’s Panel boss has been charged with sexually abusing youngsters over two decades. Daniel Ross, 61, was arrested and detained by police yesterday along with another man over claims they preyed on disadvantaged children.

Ross, 61, and Donald Finlayson, 54, were charged in connection with child sex abuse allegations spanning the 70s and 80s and will appear in court today.

Police are also probing whether Ross, once one of the most senior figures in Scotland’s panel system, was also a special constable at the time of the alleged attacks.

It is believed Ross has been charged with nine offences, while Finlayson has been charged with one.

A source said: “The charges relate to allegations Ross used his position as chairman on the Children’s Panel in Glasgow to get close to children before subjecting them to sickening sex attacks.

“At the time, Ross lived on Glasgow’s south side where he also ran a cafe.

“One victim has claimed he was lured to the cafe after Ross made initial contact at a Children’s Panel hearing.

“He was one of the most senior guys on the panel at the time so this case could have real repercussions depending on the outcome.

“Ross was first investigated by the police in 1991, but the investigation was eventually dropped. But officers started making more inquiries, leading to yesterday’s arrests after uncovering new evidence and victims.”

News of Ross’s arrest last night sent shockwaves through Children’s Hearings Scotland, who are responsible for volunteer members of the Children’s Panel.

CHS refused to confirm the length of time Ross served on the panel, adding: “CHS can confirm the person in question is not a current or recent panel member.

“All panel members are subject to Disclosure Scotland background checks as part of the confirmation of their appointment and at the end of each term.”

The panel make vital decisions about vulnerable kids and young people in need of care, or who have offended, at a children’s hearing.

Police said: “Two men aged 61 and 54 have been arrested and are detained in custody after an investigation into sex abuse allegations in the 70s and 80s.”