An Albanian judge called David Brown, 57, "a threat to society," The Telegraph reported. The sentence was imposed Wednesday for abusing children and for allowing employees to molest them.

Brown had been working for an international welfare group in Kosovo when he set up the orphanage in Tirana. He said he had seen so many children living on the streets in Albania that he was inspired to set up a home for abandoned youngsters.

Investigators say the orphanage allowed Brown to satisfy his sexual urges. He and two of his employees were arrested in May 2006 and the institution was closed.

Brown denies the charges. A friend said the Glasgow native had worked with children for 30 years in Britain and elsewhere.

"In 30 years there was never one complaint or allegation," the friend, who did not want his name used, told the newspaper. "He could never abuse or harm a child."