A rapist who subjected his victims to a horrific reign of terror will be monitored for the rest of his life.
Alexander Thomson (42) has been given an Order of Lifelong Restriction, meaning he will be monitored for the rest of his life, after subjecting four women to shocking sexual and violent abuse.
At the High Court in Glasgow last week Thomson was given an OLR and sentenced to a minimum of four years in prison before he is eligible for parole. That means if he is ever released from prison he will be subject to conditions and monitoring for life.
Thomson came to the attention of the Domestic Abuse Task Force in July 2019.
Four women documented a catalogue of violence and sexual abuse they suffered at his hands. The offences took place over a seven-year period, starting in 2012. Following the investigation, Thomson was arrested on December 12, 2019.
Unfortunately, two of the women, aged 30 and 36, have since died. However, their evidence was heard at court, with statements read by one of the investigating officers in the case, which contributed to Thomson being found guilty.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven McMillan said: “Thomson is a dangerous, serial abuser who presents a threat to women. Today’s sentencing will hopefully ensure that others are kept safe from him. He inflicted some of the most horrendous and shocking abuse I’ve ever come across.
“Without the bravery, courage and dignity of the women who came forward to report what had happened to them, Thomson wouldn’t have been held accountable for his actions, so I’d like to thank them. It was important all of the women got justice. Sadly two passed away before trial and it was right their evidence was heard in court through the reading of their statements. I hope today’s sentencing brings some comfort for all of the women and their families.
“Violence and abuse will not be tolerated. I would urge anyone who is or who has been a victim of abuse to get in touch with us but if they’re not ready to speak to us, to speak to someone they trust, people will listen. It’s never too late to report domestic abuse. I can assure you we will do everything we can to ensure you are supported, we will listen and we will thoroughly investigate all reports of abuse.”
The Daily Record told how the officer reading testimonies from the two victims who had sadly passed away said they had deserved to have their voices heard from beyond the grave.
Detective Sergeant Aisling Corduff, who read their statements from the witness box, said: “It is not something that happens very often but I believe it had a huge impact on the case.
“They couldn’t speak but I had sat and listened to them and I knew their voices. I formed relationships with these women, spent hours with them.”
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
