TERENCE HIRD SENTENCED IN ABERDEEN FOR REPEATED RAPE AND SEXUAL ABUSE
In a case that has shocked the community of Aberdeen, pensioner Terence Hird has been handed down a severe prison sentence of 11 years after being found guilty of multiple heinous crimes committed over three decades ago.The crimes involved the repeated sexual assault of a woman and a young girl, with the incidents spanning a period of five years and taking place at various locations within Aberdeen and Portlethen.
Hird’s conviction was secured by a majority jury verdict on two counts of rape and one breach of the peace.
The presiding judge, William Summers, described the offences as “profoundly troubling” and “most appalling,” emphasizing the gravity of the crimes committed by the defendant.
The jury also returned a verdict of not proven on two additional charges related to the same victims, which means the court did not find sufficient evidence to convict on those particular counts.
The court heard that Hird’s criminal activities included demanding sex from the female victim, restricting her movements, offering money in exchange for sexual acts, and ultimately raping her.
The second victim, who was only 12 years old at the time of her initial assault, was subjected to Hird’s abuse at addresses in Aberdeen and Portlethen until she reached the age of 17.
The court was also informed that Hird exposed himself and engaged in masturbation in front of this young girl, adding to the disturbing nature of his crimes.
Throughout the proceedings, Hird’s defense team argued that he was a first-time offender who had maintained steady employment throughout his life.
However, the prosecution highlighted that Hird had repeatedly raped and manipulated the two victims, coercing them into silence and submission.
The judge took into account the victims’ feelings of humiliation, degradation, and worthlessness, noting that the younger victim’s life has been profoundly affected both emotionally and physically by Hird’s actions.
Judge Summers expressed concern over Hird’s denial of responsibility and his apparent lack of remorse, which contributed to the severity of the sentence.
The court’s decision will see Hird serve his 11-year term starting from his remand in December 2024.
Additionally, Hird has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely, and a non-harassment order has been issued to protect one of the victims from further contact or intimidation.
