DUNCAN ROY HOUSTON SENTENCED TO 4 YEARS IN EDINBURGH FOR REPEATED CHILD RAPE

In a significant case heard at the High Court in Edinburgh, Duncan Roy Houston was formally sentenced to a term of four years in prison following his conviction on charges of multiple instances of child rape. The court's decision took into account Houston's prior conviction, which resulted in an eight-year prison sentence, for similar offences involving the same young girl as well as two other children.

Lady Drummond, presiding over the case, delivered a stern judgment during the sentencing hearing. She stated, "Mr Houston, you were convicted by the jury of both charges on this indictment. You engaged in indecent behaviour towards a girl aged between 4 and 11 years on numerous occasions and repeatedly raped her during that period. These heinous acts took place over two decades ago when you were in your thirties."

The victim reported that the number of offences was too many to count, highlighting the severity and ongoing nature of Houston's crimes. It was revealed that Houston had previously admitted guilt in 2002 for raping the same girl in 2000, as well as for indecent behaviour towards two other children between 1998 and 1999. Additionally, he had been convicted of a sexual assault on a third child in 2002. His earlier sentence of eight years imprisonment was handed down in 2002, factoring in his guilty pleas at that time.

The court acknowledged the profound and lifelong impact these offences have had on the victim, emphasizing the lasting trauma inflicted. Despite the convictions, Houston continues to deny any responsibility for his actions and has shown no remorse for his conduct.

In light of these factors, Lady Drummond imposed a custodial sentence of four years, which was backdated to October 19, 2023. The court considered the previous eight-year sentence and the totality of Houston's offending, which could have resulted in a combined sentence of up to twelve years. Furthermore, Houston's name will be added to the list of individuals deemed unsuitable to work with vulnerable groups, and he remains subject to indefinite notification requirements under sex offender legislation.