DUANE STOTT SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN EDINBURGH FOR ABUSIVE BEHAVIOUR AND VIOLENCE

In a significant ruling at the High Court in Edinburgh, Lord Scott handed down a substantial extended prison sentence of 12 years to Duane Stott, following his conviction on multiple serious charges related to abusive conduct. The court's decision came after a detailed examination of the evidence and the circumstances surrounding the case, which revealed a disturbing pattern of violence and coercive control over a prolonged period.

Duane Stott was found guilty of engaging in a sustained course of abusive behaviour that spanned approximately two and a half years. The charges included acts of violence, sexual violence, and coercive control, all of which contributed to a deeply troubling picture of ongoing harm inflicted upon the victim. Stott also pleaded guilty to additional offences, including assault causing injury, culpable and reckless conduct, and further instances of abusive behaviour. The court heard how these actions had a profound and lasting impact on the victim, who provided a detailed victim impact statement outlining the emotional and physical toll of the abuse.

The victim described suffering from exacerbated medical conditions, alongside symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. The emotional scars extended into social difficulties, making everyday interactions challenging. The statement also highlighted the additional stress and financial hardship caused by Stott’s failure to appear in court, which further compounded the victim’s distress.

During the sentencing hearing, Lord Scott emphasized the seriousness of the offences, noting that the abusive conduct was both coercive and controlling, and had been carried out over an extended period. The judge referenced Stott’s prior convictions, including a 2012 case involving the same victim, illustrating a troubling pattern of behaviour that had persisted over many years.

The court considered a comprehensive risk assessment which indicated a high likelihood of re-offending and potential for serious harm. The assessment pointed to maladaptive coping mechanisms and a lack of insight into his actions, raising concerns about the offender’s capacity for rehabilitation. Given these factors, the court decided that a lengthy custodial sentence was necessary to protect the public and serve as an appropriate punishment.

In addition to the 12-year extended sentence, Stott was sentenced to serve an 18-month term for failing to appear at court, with the sentences to run consecutively. The court also imposed a three-year extension period under license, during which Stott would be subject to supervision. Furthermore, he received additional sentences related to assault and abusive behaviour, accompanied by conditions including a non-harassment order that prohibits contact with the victims and his son.

Throughout the proceedings, the court underscored the entrenched and serious nature of Stott’s abusive conduct, highlighting his apparent lack of remorse and limited insight into the harm caused. The judge concluded that only a custodial sentence could adequately address the severity of the offences, protect the community, and serve as a deterrent to similar behaviour in the future.