Aaron Hunter

Aaron Hunter, a 34-year-old man, has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for a series of depraved sexual offences committed against three women in the Clackmannanshire and Stirling areas of Scotland between 2017 and 2022.

Hunter preyed on his victims in predatory attacks, including two counts of rape against one woman. In these incidents, he took advantage of her while she was sleeping and incapable of giving consent due to alcohol consumption. The woman woke up experiencing intense pain caused by Hunter's serious sexual assaults. Additionally, Hunter physically assaulted this victim in a separate attack by placing his hands around her neck.

He also carried out sexual assaults against two other women, which were described by the judge as 'predatory and humiliating'. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Hunter was found guilty following a trial at the High Court in Stirling last month. He was convicted on five charges: two counts of rape, one charge of assault, and two separate charges of sexual assault.

• The offences occurred over a five-year period from 2017 to 2022.
• The trial took place at the High Court in Stirling.
• Sentencing was at the High Court in Kilmarnock on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.

During sentencing, Judge Lord Harrower acknowledged Hunter's lack of previous criminal record, positive work history, and parental responsibilities. However, the judge emphasised the high level of culpability and the degree of harm caused, stating: 'However, as you will be aware, having regard to your level of culpability and the degree of harm caused, a significant custodial sentence is inevitable.' Hunter was placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely and received a non-harassment order banning him from contacting the victims.

Detective Inspector Forbes Wilson of Police Scotland commented on the case: 'Hunter is a sexual predator who now faces the consequences of his depraved actions. It can be very difficult to report these types of crimes. I would like to commend his victims for their strength in coming forward to officers. Their information was essential in helping us build the case against him and I hope this outcome provides them with some sense of closure.'

This case was reported by Sky News and covered by Great Driffield Radio, highlighting the ongoing efforts of Police Scotland to combat sexual offences in the region.