ERIC SIMPSON FROM KIRKCALDY CONVICTED OF RAPE AND SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST TEENAGE GIRLS

A former athletics coach from Kirkcaldy has been found guilty of heinous sexual crimes, including rape, committed against teenage girls across the Fife region. The conviction follows a detailed trial where the court heard disturbing evidence of Simpson’s predatory behavior.

During the sentencing hearing, the judge delivered a stark condemnation of Simpson’s actions, emphasizing the profound breach of trust involved. The judge stated, “These crimes involved on any view a flagrant breach of trust by you towards these young people and indeed their families. The crimes committed by you against the first complainer and the second complainer, that complainer being a child aged between 13 and 15 when you offended against her, disclosed a particular depravity on your part.”

It was highlighted that Simpson, aged 73 at the time of sentencing, had a long history of supporting and mentoring young people through his role as a coach and teacher. Despite this, his actions against the victims revealed a disturbing duality, with the judge describing him as “very much a Jekyll and Hyde character.” The court was told that Simpson’s crimes against the victims, particularly the two young girls, were “nothing short of monstrous.”

In the course of the proceedings, a criminal justice social work report was presented. The report described Simpson as a first-time offender with a supportive family and a marriage that has lasted many years. It also noted that he had led a generally pro-social life, engaging in full and useful employment over the years. The report assessed him as presenting a low risk of reoffending sexually. However, it also pointed out that Simpson had shown limited remorse for his actions and demonstrated a complete lack of empathy for his victims, which influenced the court’s view of his character.

Overall, the case underscores the tragic betrayal of trust by a man who was once seen as a positive influence in the community, but whose actions have caused lasting harm to vulnerable young girls across Fife.