JOHN TUNNICLIFFE'S SHOCKING CRIMES IN GALASHIELS: RAPE AND SEXUAL OFFENSES LEAVE COMMUNITY IN FEAR

In a series of disturbing events that have shocked the community of Galashiels, John Tunnicliffe, a 42-year-old man with a troubling criminal history, has been at the center of serious allegations and convictions related to sexual offenses involving a minor. His criminal activities, spanning over several years, have prompted calls for stricter sentencing and increased protections for victims.

Back in April 2000, Tunnicliffe was convicted of raping a 14-year-old girl at his residence in Galashiels. The case came to light when his own daughter, while bringing him a cup of coffee, unexpectedly walked into his bedroom and witnessed the assault. The court was informed that the young girl had been lured into his home during a visit, where he forcibly attacked her. The incident was not isolated; the court also heard evidence of earlier indecency acts committed by Tunnicliffe against the same girl when she was between the ages of 10 and 18. These acts included inappropriate touching and other forms of sexual misconduct, often occurring when she visited his house and he found ways to stand close or make her squeeze past him, creating an environment of intimidation and abuse.

Prosecutor Alastair Carmichael described the moment when the assault was interrupted: Tunnicliffe was in the process of raping the girl when his daughter entered the room. He ordered her to leave, and she was left shocked by what she had witnessed. Following these events, the victim and her family moved away from Galashiels to escape the trauma. However, the case did not end there. Police later contacted the victim after another girl came forward with allegations against Tunnicliffe, revealing a pattern of predatory behavior.

Throughout the legal proceedings, Tunnicliffe pleaded guilty to the charges, which included rape and previous incidents of indecency. His lawyer argued that he found it difficult to express remorse to his female social worker, claiming that Tunnicliffe considered himself attractive to women, which was used to explain his attitude and behavior. The court was also informed that Tunnicliffe had prior convictions for poaching, adding to concerns about his criminal background.

In December 2007, Tunnicliffe was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for his crimes. The sentence was deferred initially to allow for background reports, which indicated that he had shown no remorse for his actions. The judge, Lord Bracadale, remarked that if Tunnicliffe had not admitted to his guilt, the sentence could have been as long as five years. The court also noted that Tunnicliffe’s behavior and attitude warranted consideration for additional restrictions upon his release.

Following his incarceration, Tunnicliffe was released and is currently residing in Langlee, Galashiels. He remains active on Facebook, which has raised concerns among community members and victims’ advocates about his reintegration into society. The case continues to serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for ongoing support for victims of sexual violence in the region.