Steven Robertson

Steven Robertson, aged 52, was convicted of multiple sexual offences against children placed in his mother's foster care in Murthly, Perthshire, Scotland. Between 1986 and 1995, he systematically abused young girls in the household, including acts of sexual assault and rape. On several occasions, he acted in concert with his late father, Alan Robertson, to perpetrate these crimes. The abuse occurred while the children, some as young as 10 months old, were under the care of his mother, Jennifer Robertson, who failed to intervene despite her position of trust as an approved foster carer.

The offences came to light decades later through the courage of survivors who came forward to report the historical abuse. Steven Robertson was also found guilty of sexually assaulting another girl between 2015 and 2017, demonstrating a pattern of predatory behaviour that extended beyond the initial period. A total of nine charges were brought against him and his mother, with convictions secured on 20 March at the High Court in Edinburgh.

On 17 April, Judge John Morris KC sentenced Steven Robertson to an extended term of 11 years in custody, followed by a three-year extension period for the protection of the public, particularly young girls. The judge emphasised the serious harm inflicted on the victims, stating, 'You continue to deny any wrongdoing but you must appreciate I am required to sentence you in line with the jury’s verdict. I must also have regard to the serious harm you have done to the victims.' Robertson was placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely and subjected to non-harassment orders in respect of his victims. He showed no reaction during the proceedings, dressed in a black suit.

Victims present in court expressed profound distress at the sentencing, with some weeping and one shouting that the pair were 'scum'. In a statement, two siblings who were abused described the sentences as 'utterly insulting', highlighting the lifelong trauma they endure. Faye Cook, procurator fiscal for High Court sexual offences, commended the survivors' bravery, noting, 'Steven Robertson’s predatory behaviour went unchecked, allowing him to systematically abuse and rape these young girls over a number of years. Their actions have had lifelong consequences for those affected.' The case underscores ongoing efforts by authorities, including Perth and Kinross Council, to learn from historical child abuse inquiries to strengthen protections.