ETHAN MCDAVE FROM EDINBURGH SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS FOR RAPE OF 15-YEAR-OLD IN EDINBURGH

In a recent court hearing held at the High Court in Edinburgh, Ethan McDade was formally sentenced to a term of three years in custody after being found guilty of a serious sexual offence. The conviction followed a jury verdict that established McDade’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt for the assault that took place in January 2018.

During the sentencing, Lord Clark addressed the court and made a series of remarks emphasizing the gravity of the offence. He stated, “Ethan McDade, by the verdict of the jury, you were found guilty of the charge of anally raping your then partner, having pinned her down on a bed.” The judge clarified that the incident occurred when both McDade and the victim were only 15 years old, highlighting the disturbing nature of the crime committed by a minor.

Lord Clark further explained that the offence was committed in Edinburgh and that the victim’s account was deemed credible and accepted by the jury, especially given the discrepancies in the defendant’s version of events. The judge noted that this was a single, isolated incident and that McDade had no prior criminal convictions. Despite this, he underscored the seriousness of the crime, emphasizing the long-term impact such offences can have on victims, as reflected in the victim impact statement he reviewed.

In his remarks, Lord Clark acknowledged the contents of the Criminal Justice Social Work Report (CJSWR), which indicated that McDade continues to deny involvement in the offence. The report also provided insights into McDade’s background and potential for rehabilitation. The judge considered arguments presented by Mr. McAteer, who suggested that a non-custodial sentence might be appropriate given the circumstances. However, given the gravity of the offence—rape of a 15-year-old girl—the court determined that a custodial sentence was necessary.

Lord Clark discussed the factors related to McDade’s age and maturity at the time of the offence. He acknowledged that, at 15, McDade exhibited some immaturity, which could have affected his ability to fully comprehend the consequences of his actions. The judge also noted that, considering McDade’s background and subsequent development, there was a genuine potential for rehabilitation.

He explained that if the offender had been an adult, the sentence would have been five years in prison. However, taking into account the defendant’s age, immaturity, and prospects for reform, the court decided to reduce the sentence accordingly. Ultimately, Lord Clark imposed a custodial term of three years, to be served in a Young Offenders Institution, with the sentence commencing from June 2, 2023.