Scots predator raped two women in one night and sent victim chilling messages

A Scots predator raped three women - including two on the same night - bombarded one of his victims by phone with chilling messages of violence and abuse.

Aaron Carson Swan preyed on two of his victims as they slept at a property in the Scottish Borders in April 2013. The 39-year-old attacker also raped a third woman in February 2020 after she withdrew consent during sexual intercourse.

Swan was found guilty of the sex attacks alongside a further three charges at the High Court in Inverness. He was also convicted of abusing a partner by trying to control her, and given a a lifelong restriction order.

Swan, from Roxburghshire, repeatedly contacted his victim by phone, psychologically manipulated her, monitored her movements, asked relatives for information about her and uttered threats of violence all while threatening to harm himself. He was also found guilty of assaulting the victim by strangling her and pinning her against a car during an incident in July 2019 after initially calling her for help.

Chilling messages shared by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) from Swan show him telling him one victim: "I've done nothing to you. I'm not staying away from the house either."

The message continues: "You just need to accept that this is how I am and this is how we are."

He was jailed for six years under the Order for Lifelong Restriction (OLR). His name was also added to the sex offenders’ register indefinitely with non-harassment orders granted for all of his victims.

Commenting on sentencing, Scotland’s Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, Katrina Parkes, said: "The victims of Aaron Carson Swan’s depravity have shown great courage and resolve in coming forward and reporting him to the authorities. The ordeals they endured at the hands of this man have weighed heavily and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact.

“Their evidence has ensured he has been held to account for his appalling criminal behaviour and their bravery has helped protect other women from this dangerous individual. Swan has been brought to justice after a thorough investigation by the police and our expert prosecutors.

“I would urge anyone who has been victim of similar crime to come forward: report it and seek support. The Crown is committed to effectively prosecuting all sexual offenders.”

Detective Constable Jessica Laycock said: “I hope this sentencing provides some measure of closure for the victims. Sexual abuse has no place in our society and any reports made to Police Scotland will be robustly investigated.

“If you are experiencing abuse, or know someone who is, please contact us direct or through our partner agencies. We will take action, no matter the timescale.”

Contacts for help or support:

Police Scotland – in an emergency call 999; to report a crime call 101

Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 027 1234 - www.sdah.scot

Scottish Women’s Aid – www.scottishwomensaid.org.uk

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