HENRY RENTON, 81, SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON IN EAST LOTHIAN FOR OVER 100 RAPE OFFENCES

Henry Renton, an 81-year-old man accused of being a paedophile, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of more than 100 rapes involving a young girl. The offences took place over several years, mainly in Prestonpans in East Lothian and Duns in the Scottish Borders. The High Court in Edinburgh was told that Renton repeatedly sexually assaulted one of his victims from the ages of 11 to 16. Despite initially denying multiple charges at a previous trial, he was found guilty of six sex crimes committed between 2000 and 2007.

It was noted that Renton has a history of previous convictions related to sex offences involving children. During the sentencing hearing, Lord Lake described Renton’s conduct as "depraved" and "disgusting," adding that Renton appeared to engage in "victim blaming" and dismissed his prior convictions as "a matter of bad luck." The court highlighted the physical and psychological harm inflicted on the victims, who continue to endure trauma from his actions.

As part of the sentence, Renton was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and subject to non-harassment orders to prevent contact with the victims. The defence team pointed to Renton’s poor health but confirmed he was fit to stand trial and maintained his innocence throughout. The judge emphasized the seriousness of his offences and the ongoing risk he poses, especially considering his age and the length of his imprisonment.