DAVID ROBERTSON FROM CUMBERNAULD SENTENCED FOR MULTIPLE SEXUAL AND VIOLENT OFFENSES IN SCOTLAND

David Robertson, aged 28 and hailing from the town of Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire, has been convicted on multiple serious charges related to attempted murder and sexual assault. The court found him guilty of two counts of attempted murder, alongside two additional charges of rape involving women he was personally acquainted with. These crimes spanned several locations across Scotland, including Lanarkshire, East Lothian, and the Scottish Borders, highlighting a pattern of abusive behavior over an extended period.

Throughout the trial, it was revealed that Robertson subjected three women to a series of terrifying and controlling acts. His methods of abuse included threats, derogatory comments, and physical assaults, which left victims feeling helpless and intimidated. One woman recounted her experience in the High Court in Glasgow, describing how Robertson’s abusive conduct was not confined to private settings but also occurred in public spaces such as a bar and on a train. This testimony underscored the pervasive nature of his violence and the extent to which he sought to dominate his victims.

Another survivor detailed the brutality she endured at Robertson’s hands, including attacks with weapons such as a knife and a metal dog chain. She explained how Robertson systematically isolated her from her family and friends, exerting control over her social interactions and online presence by taking over her social media accounts. These acts of coercive control were part of a broader pattern of domestic abuse, which the court recognized under the provisions of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, specifically Section 1, which criminalizes a course of abusive behavior towards a partner or ex-partner.

Following a comprehensive legal process, Robertson was found guilty of a total of seven charges. His crimes were committed over several years and across multiple locations, demonstrating a sustained campaign of violence and intimidation. On 6 February 2025, the High Court in Glasgow sentenced Robertson to a term of 14 years imprisonment. Additionally, non-harassment orders were issued, permanently prohibiting him from contacting or attempting to contact the victims. His name has also been entered onto the Scottish sex offenders register indefinitely, reflecting the severity of his offenses and the ongoing risk he poses.

Scotland’s Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, Katrina Parkes, praised the bravery of the victims in coming forward. She stated, “David Robertson exploited the trust of several women, wielding coercive control and often inflicting physical and sexual violence. The courage of the victims in speaking out has allowed COPFS to ensure this abusive individual faced justice for his crimes. His offences were carried out in various locations over a period of years but, when victims came forward, our specialist prosecutors were able to capture an accurate picture of his behaviour. I commend the women for so doing and trust they find some comfort now as they attempt to move on. I urge anyone affected by similar offending not to suffer in silence but to report it and seek support.”