Ex-Scout Leader Jailed for 26 Years Over Horrific Child Abuse
A former Nottingham Scout leader and housemaster has been sentenced to 26 years behind bars for historic child sexual abuse.
Steven McNally’s Years of Abuse Revealed
Steven McNally, 67, preyed on five boys aged 5 to 15 between 1974 and 1979. The abuse happened while he worked at Nazareth House Children’s Home in Lenton and as a Scout leader for the Bishop’s Own Troop in Nottingham.
McNally was extradited from Ireland to stand trial at Nottingham Crown Court, where a jury found him guilty on 24 of 29 charges.
Gruesome Charges and Harsh Sentence
- 11 counts of indecent assault on a child
- 7 counts of repeated indecent assault on a child
- 3 counts of indecency with a child
- 2 counts of repeated indecency with a child
- 1 count of buggery on a person under 16
Judge sentenced McNally to 26 years in prison plus a one-year extended licence. He must serve at least 17 years before parole consideration.
Victims’ Brave Testimonies and Police Praise
The trial revealed how McNally abused vulnerable boys under his care. Four victims lived at the Nazareth House, run by the Sisters of Nazareth Catholic order. A fifth was abused as part of a Scout group.
One victim came forward in 2016 after seeing a child sexual abuse storyline on ITV’s Emmerdale, sparking the investigation that uncovered more victims.
Detective Constable Helen Sanders praised the victims’ courage:
“McNally was a manipulative sex offender who systematically targeted vulnerable boys over six years. He abused his position of trust in the most appalling way imaginable.”
“These victims have carried the burden of his crimes into adulthood. Whilst McNally lived a life of respectability, he forced them to relive their trauma in court.”
“Their resilience has been extraordinary. I thank them for their bravery and dignity throughout this process.”
“We urge other victims of historic abuse to come forward — it doesn’t matter how long ago it happened. We will investigate and seek justice.”
One victim sadly died before seeing justice served; police extended their condolences to his family.
McNally’s dark legacy finally faces the light as justice delivers a hard-hitting verdict.
