JOHN NESS SENTENCED IN PERTH FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON STREET VICTIM

A 46-year-old man named John Ness has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of indecently assaulting a woman in a public area within Perth. The incident took place in the early hours of May 25, when Ness approached the woman from behind as she was walking along St Leonard's Bank. Without warning, he forcefully grabbed her, causing her to fall to the ground. During the assault, Ness removed her top and bra, then covered her mouth with his hand while instructing her to remain silent, effectively silencing her during the attack.

John Ness's criminal history is extensive and troubling. He has previously been convicted twice for sex-related offenses at the High Court. Notably, he was convicted of attempted rape at the same court in Edinburgh in 1988. Later, in 1992, he was convicted at the High Court in Dunfermline of another indecent assault. These prior convictions highlight a pattern of predatory behavior and a failure to rehabilitate.

Following his recent conviction, Ness was placed on the sex offenders' register, a legal requirement for individuals with his criminal background. During the sentencing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Lord Glennie addressed Ness directly, stating, "You have left your victim traumatised. It appears to me that you haven't learned anything from your previous convictions."

At the time of the latest incident, Ness was an inmate at HMP Perth, which underscores the ongoing nature of his criminal conduct despite previous incarcerations. The court's decision to impose a six-year sentence reflects the severity of his actions and the impact on the victim, who was left deeply traumatized by the assault. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of strict sentencing for repeat offenders to protect the community and prevent further harm.