Life sentence looms for killer who murdered man and torched Annan flat
Gabriel Brown found guilty after stabbing Joseph Johnston 22 times
Last updated 14th Jul 2026
Gabriel Brown has been found guilty of murdering Joseph Johnston, 58, with a life sentence looming over him, following a brutal attack in Annan.
Brown, aged 35, was convicted at the High Court in Glasgow after a near two-week trial.
The jury rejected his defence that he was possessed by the spirit of 19th-century occultist Aleister Crowley at the time of the killing.
The attack occurred in November 2024 at Joseph Johnston's flat.
Brown, fuelled by alcohol and cannabis, stabbed Johnston a total of 22 times and committed acts described in court as "punishment".
Additionally, Brown mutilated the victim by chopping off his ring finger, cooking it, and consuming the severed digit.
The body of Johnston, who was known as Ernie, was discovered in his burnt-out flat after Brown set multiple fires to conceal his actions.
Brown's Motive and Actions
Although Brown had never met Johnston before, he learned of the victim through his step-mother, who had previously been in a relationship with Johnston.
Brown's step-mother had pointed out Johnston's residence and used a derogatory term to describe him, prompting Brown to act.
During the trial, Brown confessed to being at Johnston's flat and carrying out the savage attack.
Brown claimed to have taken the knife out of Johnston but stated he had "no recollection" of inserting it, attributing his actions to the possession by Crowley's spirit.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
The trial featured graphic testimonies, including Brown's chilling description of events leading to Johnston's death.
After the attack, Brown started fires in four areas of the flat using various methods, including turning on cooker hobs and putting metal cutlery in a microwave.
He attempted to disable the smoke alarms and fled to his step-mother's home.
Brown also texted another individual, making accusations about Johnston and adding, "he sleeps forever."
The jury ultimately convicted Brown, dismissing his claims of possession, and he is awaiting sentencing next month.
Prior to this conviction, Brown had been jailed for offences involving young girls.
At trial, Lord Mulholland expressed the gravity of the crime, stating, "This was sustained, vicious and merciless attack on a defenceless man on his own home."
Brown was warned that the attack, motivated by a desire to punish Johnston for previous actions involving his step-mother, may mean he will never be released.
Jurors were excused from further jury service for life due to the graphic evidence presented.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Graeme Robertson, said: “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.
“While this verdict does not change the outcome, I hope it brings Joseph’s family some form of comfort.
“Reckless and violent acts such as this will not be tolerated, and we will work tirelessly to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.