SERIAL SEX OFFENDER CONVICTED OF ATTEMPTED RAPE IN EDINBURGH
A serial sex offender has been convicted of attempting to assault a woman on Lothian Road in Edinburgh after following her on July 15, 2012.Thomas Donnelly, aged 35, tried to force himself on the 21-year-old woman by grabbing her off the street.
The High Court in Edinburgh heard how Donnelly, who was previously convicted of attempted rape in 2003, was apprehended after the victim screamed for help.
Donnelly, who was originally from Falkirk, pushed her against a wall, covered her mouth, and started struggling with her.
However, the woman managed to push him away before passersby came to her aid.
Donnelly ran off but was caught a short distance away.
During the trial, the prosecution's lawyer, Leanne Cross, presented evidence indicating that Donnelly's intent was to have sex with the woman.
Donnelly denied the attack.
After a three-hour deliberation, the jury found him guilty.
The court was informed that Donnelly has a history of convictions including dishonesty, road traffic offences, assault, and a previous conviction for assault with intent to rape.
The judge, John Beckett QC, deferred sentencing for reports on Donnelly's character, and he is scheduled to be sentenced in Glasgow on 7 March 2013.
The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offence and the danger Donnelly poses, considering the possibility of an extended sentence to protect the public.
