Prison officer jailed for 13 years for child rape

A "depraved" former prison officer who admitted raping a young girl in the north-east of Scotland and sexually assaulting another has been jailed for 13 years.

Russell Maitland, 37, admitted carrying out the offences in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, and in Aberdeen. The Peterhead man raped one girl when she was under the age of 13, and also sexually assaulted her.

At the High Court in Aberdeen, Maitland was told he would also be monitored for another three years after his release.

BBC Scotland News understands he had worked at HMP Grampian in Peterhead.

Maitland also admitted sexually assaulting another young girl in Peterhead and a further charge of various indecent exposures in the Peterhead area.

Sentence had been deferred for background reports.

Defending, Kris Gilmartin told the court: "He wishes to publicly apologise for the harm which he has caused.

"It is unavoidable that a significant custodial sentence will be imposed."

Judge Alan Summers told Maitland - who watched proceedings via a video link from prison - that he had admitted a "horrific catalogue of sexual violence".

He said the offences had resulted in "life-changing consequences" for the victims, who struggled each day.

The judge said it was a testament to their courage that justice had been done.

He described Maitland's crimes as "almost unimaginably depraved" as he handed down the 16-year extended sentence.

A Scottish Prison Service (SPS) spokesperson said: "We recognise the profound and lasting impact such crimes have on survivors.

"This individual was suspended whilst under investigation by Police Scotland, and is no longer employed by the SPS."

Katrina Parkes, procurator fiscal for high court sexual offences, described Maitland as a sexual predator who preyed on "vulnerable" young children.

"It is thanks to the courage of the victims that this prosecution and conviction have been made possible," she said.

"Maitland has now been held accountable for his depraved behaviour, which I hope brings some comfort to those affected by his offending.

She added: "We are committed to securing justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of who the offender may be.

"We would encourage anyone affected by similar crimes to come forward. You will be listened to and supported as we seek to secure justice using all the tools at our disposal."