Women praised for helping to put violent sex attacker behind bars

A tattooed thug who carried out a campaign of violence and control towards three women - including one in the Scottish Borders - has been jailed for 14 years. 

David Robertson was found guilty of two charges of attempted murder as well as two counts of rape. 

The 28-year-old chef from Cumbernauld terrified and controlled his victims using threats, derogatory comments and assaults. 

One woman told the High Court in Glasgow that Robertson’s abuse took place in public – including in a bar and on a train – as well as in private.  

Another described how he subjected her to brutal attacks with weapons, including a knife and a metal dog chain.

He isolated her from family and friends and took control of her social media. 

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Robertson’s offending happened in various locations in Lanarkshire, East Lothian and Galashiels. 

He was found guilty of a total of seven charges including two under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 Section 1 which criminalises a course of abusive behaviour towards a partner or ex-partner. 

And is now starting a 14-year sentence behind bars.

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Non-harassment orders, banning him from contacting or attempting to contact the victims, were granted for an indefinite period.  

His name has also been added to the Sex of Offenders Register for life.   

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Scotland’s Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, Katrina Parkes, said Robertson’s heinous behaviour towards women had been ended by the bravery of victims. 

She said: “David Robertson exploited the trust of several women, wielding coercive control and often inflicting physical and sexual violence. 

“The courage of the victims in speaking out has allowed COPFS to ensure this abusive individual faced justice for his crimes.  

“His offences were carried out in various locations over a period of years but, when victims came forward, our specialist prosecutors were able to capture an accurate picture of his behaviour. 

"I commend the women for so doing and trust they find some comfort now as they attempt to move on." 

And she added: “I urge anyone affected by similar offending not to suffer in silence but to report it and seek support.” 

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