MATTHEW FIELDING

A man who committed a rape during his initial date with a woman has received a nine-year prison sentence.

Matthew Fielding was sentenced today at Glasgow’s High Court.

The 49-year-old was previously found guilty of 12 counts of sexual and physical abuse involving two women.

During the sentencing, Fielding displayed callous behaviour by mocking the victims who testified against him as he was escorted to the cells.

He smirked and brushed under his eyes, simulating tears.

The offences took place between 2007 and 2021, predominantly in Paisley, Renfrewshire.

One of the women was raped after what appeared to be their first date.

His other abusive conduct included accusing her of infidelity, insulting her with offensive names, and denying her food and drink.

Fielding also filmed a distressed victim on his mobile device in a mocking manner.

The second victim endured similar abuse, including violent rape where he hit her with a belt, choked her, and suffocated her face with a pillow.

He also assaulted her while she was sleeping.

Other violent acts against her involved biting, punching, and shaking.

Additionally, Fielding kept a sword nearby while sleeping.

During sentencing, Judge Sheena Fraser stated, "You are convicted of numerous charges involving rape, sexual assault, and other abuse.

These crimes spanned over 14 years, characterized by manipulative and terrifying behaviour that has caused significant psychological harm." He will be supervised for an extra three years post-release and has been placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, with a lifelong ban from contacting the victims.