JEDBURGH BADMINTON COACH JAILED FOR RAPING TEENAGER
In 2007, a former badminton coach was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after being convicted of raping a teenage girl.Gordon Yule, aged 39 and residing in Bongate View, Jedburgh, committed the offense in 2005 and was found guilty following a trial.
During the High Court proceedings in Edinburgh, Lord Hodge addressed Yule, stating he had been convicted of a very serious crime involving the rape of a vulnerable young woman.
The judge mentioned that, in determining the sentence, he considered Yule's low risk of reoffending, as assessed by a psychologist.
The victim’s mother had previously warned the coach about his “excessive familiarity” with her daughter, shortly before he committed the crime.
Yule maintained his innocence, claiming the acts were with the girl’s consent, and he denied the charge.
He was also acquitted of raping another 16-year-old girl three years earlier.
In his sentencing remarks, Lord Hodge highlighted the numerous character references supporting Yule, noting his many friends and community support.
He also pointed out the lack of significant force during the incident, emphasizing his previous good character.
Nonetheless, the judge made it clear that the gravity of the offence warranted serious punishment.
As part of the sentence, Yule was ordered to register as a sex offender.
