CALUM MACGREGOR CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ASSAULT IN EDINBURGH - ARMY OFFICER'S CRIME SHOCKS LOCAL COMMUNITY
An incident involving a serious sexual assault has culminated in the conviction of Calum MacGregor, an Army officer, following a harrowing case that took place in Edinburgh.The case drew significant attention as it involved allegations of rape and assault against a woman MacGregor met through the popular dating app Hinge.
The events unfolded at the victim’s residence in Edinburgh, where MacGregor reportedly attacked her after they had spent time together and appeared to be getting along well.
Calum MacGregor, aged 30, who holds the rank of Army captain and was associated with a parachute engineer regiment based in Suffolk, faced charges related to the assault that occurred on December 14, 2021.
Throughout the trial, MacGregor maintained that the sexual activity was consensual and that he believed the woman was agreeable to what transpired.
He denied raping her and insisted that he had a reasonable belief that consent was given.
Despite his claims, the jury at the High Court in Edinburgh found him guilty of the charges after deliberating on the evidence presented.
The presiding judge, Alison Stirling, addressed the jury, acknowledging the difficulty and anxiety involved in the case.
She emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and the importance of the court’s role in delivering justice.
During the proceedings, MacGregor testified that he believed the woman was consenting throughout their encounter.
He stated, “At no point in the evening did she say ‘no’ or ‘stop’,” suggesting he thought the activity was mutually agreed upon.
However, the court was shown images revealing bruising on the woman, which shocked MacGregor himself.
When questioned about his reaction to the injuries, he admitted to being “pretty horrified” and “shocked” upon seeing the images.
His defense solicitor advocate, Ewen Roy, asked whether MacGregor was surprised by the extent of the bruising, to which he responded affirmatively.
Mr.
Roy further inquired if MacGregor intended to cause harm, and he responded, “No, absolutely not.” MacGregor provided some background about his life, explaining that after completing school, he attended St Andrews University, where he participated in the Officer Training Corps before progressing through the army officer selection process.
He emphasized that he had no prior trouble with the law, stating, “I have never been in trouble before this incident or since.” During the trial, MacGregor was released on bail but was subsequently placed on the sex offenders’ register following his conviction.
The judge decided to adjourn sentencing to allow for the preparation of a comprehensive background report on him, which will inform the final sentencing decision.
MacGregor remains in custody as the legal process continues, and the case has left a lasting impact on the local community in Edinburgh, highlighting the serious consequences of such allegations and the importance of justice for victims of sexual assault.
