ISLA BRYSON AND THE HORRIFIC CRIMES IN CLYDEBANK AND GLASGOW

Isla Bryson, a woman from Clydebank, has been convicted in Glasgow High Court for a series of disturbing and violent sexual assaults committed before her transition to female. The court found Bryson guilty of raping two women in separate incidents, taking place in 2016 and 2019, while she was known by her birth name, Adam Graham.

The six-day trial at the High Court in Glasgow unveiled a troubling pattern of behavior where Bryson used online platforms to target vulnerable women. Prosecutors argued that Bryson actively preyed on women who were in fragile states, exploiting their trust and circumstances to commit the heinous acts. Despite her denial, claiming she “would never hurt another human being,” the jury swiftly convicted her of both rape charges after less than a day of deliberation.

During the proceedings, Judge Lord Scott addressed Bryson directly in the dock. He conveyed the gravity of her crimes, stating, “You have been convicted by the jury of two extremely serious charges, those being charges of rape.” The judge emphasized that the severity of the offenses would almost certainly result in a substantial prison sentence, adding, “a significant sentence is inevitable.”

Following her conviction, Bryson’s bail was revoked, and she was remanded in custody. She will remain incarcerated until February 28, allowing the court to gather comprehensive information about her in preparation for sentencing. The court heard details about her background, including her struggles with a brief and unhappy marriage in 2016, during which she stayed at her first victim’s home in Clydebank. The evidence revealed that on the night of the assault, Bryson behaved unusually by locking the victim’s bedroom door, an action that added to the distress.

The first victim, now aged 30, provided harrowing testimony via pre-recorded video evidence. She described being raped for approximately thirty minutes and shared that she repeatedly said “no” during the assault. She expressed her fear, noting that she was “sick to the stomach” and overwhelmed by confusion during the attack. The victim also revealed that Bryson later threatened her family with harm should she disclose what happened.

The second victim, aged 34, testified via live video-link, recounting her experience after meeting Bryson through the social media app Bigo, where Bryson previously used the alias DJ Blade. The two women connected after days of messaging, and the day after their initial meeting in June 2019, they spent time together at the victim’s home in Drumchapel. She described how Bryson removed her pyjama bottoms and performed a sexual act to which she initially consented. However, she asked Bryson to stop when the encounter became painful and uncomfortable, but Bryson continued despite her pleas.

The second victim’s police statement detailed that Bryson ignored her requests to stop and instead told her to “stay there” because “he (Bryson) wasn't finished.” She recounted closing her eyes and complying as Bryson continued to assault her, sharing her feelings of helplessness and fear during the ordeal.

Throughout the trial, Bryson claimed both women had consented to the sexual acts. She also spoke of her personal journey, revealing she became aware of her transgender identity at age four but did not commence her transition until she was 29. Bryson stated she is currently undergoing hormone treatment and seeking surgery to complete her gender transition. She described her emotional struggles in 2016, adding that she was “struggling with my sexuality and having issues emotionally.”

Despite her explanations, the jury unanimously found Bryson guilty of raping the second woman, with a majority agreeing on her guilt regarding the first victim. The court acknowledged her past record, which includes three minor convictions that did not lead to imprisonment.

In light of the findings, Lord Scott sentenced Isla Bryson today in Edinburgh to an extended prison term. The sentence comprises a total of 11 years, with an eight-year custodial period and an additional three years on license. The judge explained his reasoning, emphasizing the seriousness of her offenses, the need for public protection, and concerns about her high likelihood of reoffending. He highlighted that Bryson demonstrated no remorse or acceptance of responsibility, underscoring the risk she poses to vulnerable women in particular.

The court considered her background of adverse childhood experiences and neurodevelopmental conditions such as dyslexia and ADHD, which reportedly affected her social functioning. However, these factors were deemed insufficient to mitigate the gravity of her crimes. The judge pointed out that her vulnerability does not justify the actions she committed, especially given the systematic nature of her offending against women who trusted her and felt safe in their own homes.

Without victim impact statements, the judge acknowledged the potential for lasting harm caused by such conduct, emphasizing the importance of detention to prevent further harm. The risk assessments indicated a high probability of Bryson reoffending sexually, necessitating stringent supervision and monitoring if released.

Taking all factors into account, including her troubled early years, psychological reports, and the pattern of her offending, Lord Scott concluded that only a custodial sentence could serve justice and protect the public. The extended sentence will see Bryson under supervision for three years after her release, subject to conditions set by the Scottish Ministers. Failure to comply could result in her being returned to custody.

Finally, the court ordered that Bryson be subject to indefinite notification requirements, ensuring ongoing registration for sexual offenses, in an effort to safeguard future potential victims and the community at large.