ROBERT WHITEFIELD'S HORRIFIC SEX ABUSE IN HADDINGTON AND MUSSELBURGH LEADS TO SIX-YEAR JAIL SENTENCE

In a case that has shocked the communities of Haddington and Musselburgh, Robert Whitefield, a 75-year-old pensioner, was sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of subjecting two young girls to a series of heinous and depraved acts of sexual abuse spanning over two decades.

Whitefield's criminal activities began more than 40 years ago, with his first victim, whom he raped, suffering immensely from the trauma inflicted upon her during that period. The abuse continued over the years, with the second girl also enduring painful and traumatic experiences, including episodes that left her bleeding and crying. The severity and brutality of his actions were underscored during the court proceedings, with Lord Doherty describing Whitefield's conduct as “utterly depraved.”

The judge emphasized the profound and lasting impact of Whitefield’s crimes on his victims, stating that his actions had robbed them of their innocence and caused enduring emotional scars. Recognizing the gravity of the offenses, Lord Doherty made it clear that a substantial custodial sentence was necessary to serve justice and protect the public.

While acknowledging Whitefield’s age and health, as well as the fact that his last offending occurred nearly 20 years ago, the judge noted that these factors were taken into account but did not diminish the seriousness of the crimes. The court was informed that Whitefield had previously been convicted of indecent exposure, adding to the pattern of his predatory behavior.

Whitefield, who resides at Market Court, earlier pleaded guilty to four charges, including rape, indecent assault, and indecency, relating to the abuse of the two girls in Musselburgh. The court heard that his first victim was targeted between 1972 and 1979, while the second girl was abused between 1989 and 1994. The judge stated that, had it not been for his guilty pleas, Whitefield would have faced an even longer sentence, estimated at around eight years.

As the court proceedings concluded, the seriousness of Whitefield’s crimes was made clear, and the community was reminded of the importance of justice for victims of such heinous acts.