SEAN KIRKUP SENTENCED FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT IN STIRLING

At the High Court in Stirling, a serious case involving Sean Kirkup reached its conclusion with a stern sentence handed down by Lady Poole. Kirkup, aged 36, was convicted of multiple charges related to domestic abuse and sexual assault, following a trial that culminated on 5 February 2025 at Edinburgh High Court. The court's judgment reflected the gravity of his actions and the need for public protection.

Lady Poole announced that Kirkup would serve an extended custodial sentence of four years, with an additional two years to be served under supervised release in the community. The judge emphasized the disturbing nature of the offenses, which included two counts of domestic abuse and two counts of sexual assault. She detailed the incidents, starting with the first victim, whom Kirkup assaulted during a first date by pushing her against a sink and sexually assaulting her. Despite this initial assault, the victim chose to give Kirkup another chance, entering into a brief relationship. During this period, Kirkup subjected her to verbal abuse about her appearance and clothing, and physically assaulted her by bending back her fingers.

The second victim's ordeal was even more prolonged and severe. Over an 11-month period, Kirkup engaged in repeated abusive behaviors, including shouting, swearing, demanding money, seizing her, punching her, and even choking her by compressing her throat. The court heard that he sexually assaulted her multiple times, with actions that could have caused serious harm, such as placing his hands on her throat and restricting her breathing. His physical assaults also involved pulling her hair, slapping, and striking her with a whip and paddle, leaving her badly bruised. The victim described crying and begging him to stop, but Kirkup continued his assault, telling her to 'just take it.'

Lady Poole highlighted that such conduct is likely to inflict significant psychological trauma alongside physical injuries. She made it clear that society will not tolerate violence and abuse against women. The court noted Kirkup's history of previous convictions, all dealt with at sheriff court level, involving threats, abusive behavior, and offenses related to impeding police and breaching bail conditions. Of particular concern were two prior convictions from 2021 that involved domestic aggravations.

In her sentencing remarks, Lady Poole acknowledged Kirkup's denial of the charges and his lack of insight or empathy towards his victims. The court's social work assessment classified him as a high risk of sexual offending and a highly imminent risk of domestic abuse that could cause serious harm. The assessment concluded that given his ongoing attitude towards offending, managing his risk within the community would be unlikely.

Despite mitigation arguments, the judge noted Kirkup's troubled childhood and his efforts to build a life despite family difficulties. His service as a marine engineer in the Royal Navy and his work as a maintenance engineer were recognized as positive aspects of his background. He maintains contact with his son and has earned a position of trust in prison as a passman after a short remand period. However, given the severity of his crimes and his criminal history, the court determined that only custody could adequately protect the public.

Consequently, Lady Poole imposed an extended sentence totaling six years. The custodial component comprises four years, with an additional six months reflecting the partner aggravation on one of the charges. The two-year extension period will be served in the community under strict supervision and conditions set by the Scottish Ministers. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in revocation of his license and re-imprisonment, as well as potential additional sentences for any offences committed while on license.

In addition to the extended sentence, Kirkup received a six-month imprisonment term for one charge and a two-year sentence for another, with all sentences to run concurrently. The totality principle was applied, and the sentences were backdated to 5 February 2025, the date he was first remanded in custody. As a result, he is now subject to indefinite notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

Finally, the court decided against issuing a non-harassment order for the second victim, considering her wishes. However, a non-harassment order was imposed concerning the first victim, prohibiting Kirkup from approaching or contacting her by any means, including digital communication, for a period of ten years.