ADAM CARRUTHERS: FALKIRK'S COLD-BLOODED SERIAL RAPIST CONVICTED OF 17 CHARGES

In a significant development in the fight against sexual violence, police authorities have publicly condemned Adam Carruthers, a man whose actions over nearly two decades have left a trail of trauma and fear among his victims in Falkirk. The conviction, handed down on a Monday at the High Court in Edinburgh, marks the culmination of a lengthy investigation into a series of heinous crimes committed by Carruthers, who was found guilty of 17 separate charges, including multiple counts of rape and indecent assault spanning from 1996 to 2014.

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha McCluskey described Carruthers as a "callous individual" who deliberately targeted vulnerable women, believing they would be too afraid or ashamed to come forward and report his crimes. Her comments underscore the predatory nature of his offenses and the calculated manner in which he chose his victims. The court heard that Carruthers, now 44 years old, had inflicted unimaginable suffering on four women through rape, and had also sexually assaulted another woman while she was hospitalized. Additionally, he was found to have physically abused the children of one of his victims, further illustrating the extent of his brutality.

During the trial, Carruthers attempted to portray himself in a different light, claiming to be a "caring" church-goer and denying all allegations. His defense was met with skepticism, especially considering his prior criminal record, which included convictions for assault and breach of the peace. Notably, he had previously been registered as a sex offender after attacking a teenager with learning difficulties, highlighting a pattern of concerning behavior.

One victim described Carruthers as a "Jekyll and Hyde" character, recounting how he could be seemingly kind and then suddenly change into a violent aggressor. She revealed that she was raped by Carruthers while pregnant and with her children present in the house, a testimony that underscores the terrifying nature of his crimes.

Following the guilty verdict, Lady Wise ordered a comprehensive risk assessment to be conducted, which could potentially lead to a lifelong restriction order, ensuring that Carruthers remains under supervision and away from vulnerable individuals. Detective Chief Inspector McCluskey emphasized the importance of the victims' bravery in coming forward, as well as the diligent work of Police Scotland’s Domestic Abuse Task Force, which played a crucial role in bringing Carruthers to justice. She reaffirmed the police’s commitment to protecting the community and ensuring that those who commit such callous acts are held accountable for their actions.