A remorseless former serviceman who raped a woman on Christmas Day has been told how his actions have caused her “significant” and “continuing” harm.
Kevin Gilchrist, 41, was given a seven-year jail term by judge Lord Richardson following a hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh today.
Gilchrist, of Aberdeen, preyed on the female, who cannot be named for legal reasons, between June 2018 and July 2020 at locations in the city.
He was convicted following a trial earlier this year at the High Court in Aberdeen.
He raped his victim at a house in the city on December 25 2019 and sexually assaulted her earlier the same year.
He was also convicted of physically assaulting the woman at a location in Aberdeen.
Today, Gilchrist, who was remanded in custody at the end of his trial, observed proceedings via video link from prison.
Sentence had been deferred for Lord Richardson to obtain a background report on the first offender.
‘His position is one of continued denial’
Gilchrist watched as defence advocate Gareth Jones KC told Lord Richardson that his client still continues to maintain he was innocent of any wrongdoing.
Mr Jones said: “His position is one of continued denial. However, he understands that the type of disposal he will receive is not the focus of today’s hearing – he understands that today’s hearing will focus on how long the custodial sentence will be.
“As a consequence of his position, there is little I can say. The most significant point I can advance on his behalf is that he has no previous convictions.
“He appreciates that he will be offered courses to address his offending behaviour. He has expressed a wish to do that.”
Lord Richardson told Gilchrist that he had no other option but to send him to prison.
Passing sentence, the judge said: “Your actions have caused the complainer to suffer significant and continuing harm.
“You continue to deny any wrongdoing and you express no remorse for your actions. It is clear from the verdict of the jury that your story was not believed.
“I take into account that you have no previous convictions. I also take into account that you have served in the armed forces.
“However, it is clear to me that I must impose a lengthy custodial sentence. I will impose a sentence of seven years.”
Gilchrist was also placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Detective Chief Inspector Carron McKellar, from North East Division, said: “We welcome the sentencing of Kevin Gilchrist.
“It is thanks to the courage of his victim in coming forward that he has been sentenced to seven years in prison.
“I would like to commend her for her bravery throughout this investigation and court proceedings. I hope that his sentencing will give some comfort that Gilchrist now faces the consequences of his actions.
“We remain committed to supporting victims of sexual crimes and thoroughly investigating them and bringing those responsible to justice.
“Anyone who reports similar crimes to police can do so with the assurance that they will be fully supported by officers and partner agencies.”
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