JAY GRAHAM FROM KELSO CHARGED WITH CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN THE SCOTTISH BORDERS

Jay Graham, a 26-year-old man from Kelso, became involved in a disturbing pattern of sexual abuse that began when his victim was only eight years old. Over a span of five years, from July 2006 to July 2011, Graham repeatedly assaulted and raped the young girl at various locations within the Scottish Borders region. The victim endured these traumatic experiences in silence for years, only choosing to come forward after attending university lectures that unexpectedly stirred painful memories of her past abuse.

It was only after she confided in her parents about the abuse that Graham was apprehended by law enforcement authorities. The woman’s decision to report the crimes was influenced by the emotional distress triggered by her academic environment, particularly classes focused on evidence and sexual assault, which reminded her of her own ordeal. Her parents, noticing changes in her behavior, became suspicious and confronted her, leading to her breaking down in tears on November 20, 2018, and revealing the harrowing details of her childhood abuse.

Following her disclosure, the victim took the necessary steps to seek justice. She reported the matter to the police on November 22, 2018, after careful consideration of her options. Graham was subsequently arrested on December 11 of the same year. During legal proceedings, he pleaded guilty to two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, acknowledging his crimes.

Prosecutor Angela Gray, speaking at a previous hearing, detailed the impact of the abuse on the victim. She explained that the victim, who was pursuing a law degree at the time, was deeply affected by her experiences. Gray noted that the victim’s behavior changed significantly after her trauma was triggered, prompting her parents to intervene. The emotional toll of the abuse and the subsequent legal process underscored the severity of Graham’s actions and the lasting damage inflicted upon the young woman from Kelso.