KRIS CLARK FROM DUMFRIES SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL OFFENCES IN LIVINGSTON

A man identified as Kris Clark, aged 37 and hailing from Dumfries, has been sentenced to a substantial prison term after being convicted of a series of heinous sexual offences committed over a period of approximately ten years. The High Court in Livingston heard that Clark's actions involved a disturbing pattern of physical and sexual abuse directed at three women, with the severity and prolonged nature of his crimes leaving a lasting impact on his victims.

During the sentencing hearing, Lord Arthurson expressed profound condemnation of Clark’s conduct, stating that he had 'clearly lost all human decency.' The judge emphasized that Clark’s criminal behavior was characterized by a gross abuse of power, involving not only sexual violence but also coercion and stalking, which inflicted significant and potentially irreparable harm on those affected.

Clark was found guilty on twelve separate charges, including two counts of rape and two of sexual coercion, all involving two women. The offences were described as occurring under 'truly appalling circumstances,' with evidence including video recordings of Clark’s depraved acts, which played a crucial role in the jury’s conviction. The court heard that Clark had used and abused his victims in degrading ways, including forcing two women to terminate pregnancies and compelling one victim to engage in sexual acts with multiple men without her consent. These acts included vaginal, anal, and oral penetration, all documented on video by Clark himself.

In addition to the sexual offences, Clark was convicted of stalking, engaging in abusive conduct, and sexual assault. The judge highlighted the gravity of these crimes, noting that Clark’s actions demonstrated a complete disregard for the dignity and well-being of his victims. The evidence presented at trial painted a picture of a man who had become immersed in a world of sexual deviance, with his behavior driven by perverted gratification rather than any sense of decency or remorse.

Lord Arthurson pointed out that Clark’s criminal record was relatively short but included a domestic violence-related conviction for threatening and abusive behavior. A comprehensive social work report and risk assessment prepared for the sentencing revealed that Clark poses a high risk of harm to women, underscoring the importance of a lengthy custodial sentence to protect the public.

In his remarks, the judge acknowledged Clark’s personal circumstances, including his struggles with cocaine addiction and alcohol issues, as well as his employment history and role as a father of two children. Despite these factors, the court determined that only a very substantial custodial sentence could adequately reflect the seriousness of his crimes and serve as a deterrent.

Consequently, Clark was sentenced to an extended term of 15 years, with a custodial period of 10 years followed by a five-year extension on licence. This extension will involve supervised release in the community, with conditions set by Scottish Ministers. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in revocation of his licence and re-imprisonment. The sentence was backdated to June 24, 2021, the date of Clark’s initial remand.

Furthermore, Clark will be subject to indefinite notification requirements under Part 2 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct post-release. The court also issued non-harassment orders preventing Clark from approaching or contacting two of the complainants, orders that will remain in effect indefinitely. The judge’s decision underscores the severity of Clark’s crimes and the need for continued vigilance to safeguard potential future victims from his predatory behavior.