GRAEME IRVING SENTENCED IN ABERDEENSHIRE FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN EDINBURGH

A man identified as Graeme Irving, aged 34, has been handed down an eight-year prison sentence after being convicted of serious sexual offences committed in Edinburgh. The case was heard at the High Court in Edinburgh, where Irving was found guilty of multiple counts related to sexual assaults on two women who were either asleep or unconscious at the time of the attacks.

Judge Fiona Tait, presiding over the case, acknowledged that Irving had no previous convictions for sex offences, which might have otherwise influenced the court's view. However, she emphasized that Irving posed a significant risk of reoffending, warranting a severe sentence. The court's decision was based on the gravity of the crimes and the profound impact they had on the victims, as detailed in their statements, which revealed ongoing trauma and emotional distress.

The prosecution presented evidence that led to Irving’s conviction on two counts of rape and one count of assault causing injury. During the trial, it was revealed that Irving had assaulted a pregnant woman, pushing her and causing her to fall, before subjecting her to rape while she was unable to give consent due to her condition. The second victim also suffered a sexual assault while she was either asleep or unconscious, with the offences spanning from 2013 to 2020.

Irving denied some of the charges but admitted partial responsibility for others. His defense team attempted to mitigate his culpability by highlighting a troubled childhood, although they acknowledged his previous conviction for assault.

In addition to the prison term, the court ordered Irving to be placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely. Upon release, he will be subject to a two-year period of supervision, during which any breach of conditions could result in his return to prison. The judge underscored that given the severity of the offences, only a custodial sentence was appropriate, leading to the eight-year imprisonment and an additional two-year licence period.

Currently, Irving remains incarcerated, and the court’s ruling reflects the serious nature of his crimes and the lasting trauma inflicted on the victims. The case highlights the ongoing concerns about sexual violence and the importance of stringent legal measures to protect vulnerable individuals.