DAVID RANKINE AND HIS SHOCKING CHILD ABUSE MATERIAL IN DUNDEE AND PERTH
A prominent businessman and former volunteer at a well-known private school in Dundee has been sentenced to serve time behind bars after authorities uncovered a disturbing collection of child abuse images and videos.David Rankine, aged 42, who had built a successful media enterprise and was widely recognized for his voluntary first aid work at Dundee High School, appeared before Perth Sheriff Court to face charges related to possessing indecent images of children.
His actions have not only marred his reputation but also delivered a severe legal punishment.
The court heard that Rankine received a prison sentence of eight months for his criminal conduct, and this was followed by an extended period of two additional years on the Sex Offenders Register, which will require him to remain registered for the next decade.
Sheriff Duthie emphasized the gravity of the case, stating, "Because of the gravity of the crime you committed, a custodial sentence is the only appropriate disposal.
You were part of the process of child abuse." The judge continued, condemning Rankine’s contribution to the demand for illegal material, which, according to the court, fuels the suffering and terror experienced by children who are subjected to abuse.
The judge’s comments reflect the serious nature of the offenses and the societal outrage they provoke.
The investigation into Rankine's activities was initiated in early 2021 when police, acting on a tip-off, raided his residence in Carnoustie.
The police found a wide range of electronic devices, including four laptops and two iPhones, which contained illicit files.
Forensic analysis of these devices revealed approximately 750 illegal files, with about a third classified as Category A, indicating highly obscene material.
The police’s operation was systematic and thorough.
To confirm suspicions, a team of four officers conducted a detailed search of Rankine’s home on Henry Cotton Place.
They seized not only the digital devices but also six hard drives and a tablet.
Upon preliminary inspection, investigators found a disturbing assortment of visual content—574 still images and 183 videos depicting children between the ages of four and sixteen being sexually abused.
Following his arrest, Rankine resigned from his position as a director at MTC Media, a company he helped relaunch in 2004 after its inception in 1999.
MTC Media, which boasts clients such as Scottish Water, Umbro UK, and Brewdog, issued a statement confirming that Rankine had not been involved with the company since 2018 and had stepped down as of March 2021.
The company expressed shock and dismay at the revelations.
In addition to his media career, Rankine was an active volunteer at Dundee High School, often assisting with first aid at sports events held at Mayfield Sports Centre.
The school clarified that first aid services during school sports events are provided by St Andrew’s First Aid, an organization with whom Rankine volunteered.
The school’s representative stated, "We can confirm that first aid cover at our school sports fixtures is provided by St Andrew’s First Aid, with whom Mr.
Rankine was a volunteer.
We are not aware of any suggestion or evidence, at this stage, or any issue or concern regarding the conduct of Mr.
Rankine in his capacity as a volunteer." A spokeswoman for St Andrew’s First Aid also expressed regret over the situation, stating, "We have been aware of David Rankine’s crimes and we have deep sympathy for those affected.
While we cannot comment on any individual volunteers, we have the relevant safeguards and processes in place and take all matters pertaining to child protection extremely seriously." The court’s ruling and subsequent statements from associated organizations underscore the severe consequences faced by Rankine for his actions.
The legal process has now concluded, and justice has been served in this distressing case, which has shocked the local communities of Dundee and Perth alike.
