ANDREW MARSTERS FROM PETERHEAD SENTENCED FOR DREADFUL SEXUAL ASSAULT AND DRUG OFFENSES IN EDINBURGH

Andrew Marsters, a man aged 48 from the town of Peterhead, found himself at the center of a grave criminal case that has drawn significant attention from the legal community and the public alike. The case involved allegations of sexual misconduct and drug-related offenses that took place within a residence in Peterhead.

According to court records, Marsters admitted to engaging in sexual acts with a woman at a house in Peterhead on the 16th and 17th of September, 2019. The woman was under the influence of drugs at the time, which rendered her incapable of giving or withholding consent. The court heard that she was intoxicated due to the effects of substances, making her vulnerable and unable to make informed decisions regarding her own body.

In addition to the sexual assault, Marsters confessed to being involved in the supply of Etizolam, a Class C drug, to the woman during those same dates. He also acknowledged possessing the drug himself on September 17, 2019. These admissions formed a significant part of the case against him, highlighting a pattern of drug-related activity intertwined with the assault.

Initially, the case was heard at the High Court in Edinburgh, where Marsters was sentenced to seven years in prison for his crimes. However, this sentence was later subject to review and was reduced to six years by the Court of Criminal Appeal in Edinburgh. The judges overseeing the appeal described the assault as 'dreadful,' emphasizing the gravity of the offense and the fact that Marsters exploited a vulnerable, intoxicated woman who was unable to defend herself or give consent.

While acknowledging that the original sentence might have been excessive, the appellate court underscored the seriousness of the crime. They stated, 'The appellant took advantage of a vulnerable, intoxicated woman who was incapable of consenting,' reaffirming the court's stance on the severity of the misconduct.

It is also noteworthy that Marsters has an extensive criminal record, which includes nine prior convictions related to drug offenses. This history was taken into account during the proceedings, underscoring a pattern of criminal behavior that extends beyond the recent offenses.

Despite the reduction in his sentence, the court maintained the conviction, recognizing the seriousness of the assault and the harm caused to the victim. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by drug abuse and exploitation, and it highlights the ongoing efforts of the justice system to hold offenders accountable for their actions.