Young Aberdeen rapist who claimed victim could have been left 'a bit upset' jailed

A young rapist who claimed his victim could have been left "a bit upset" after her ordeal has been locked up for four-and-a-half years.

Darren Donaldson, an ice hockey player who featured for Dundee Stars Under-19s, took advantage of the vulnerable teenage girl in Invergowrie near Dundee on August 4, 2022.

The now 19 year-old, of Dyce in Aberdeen, denied the crime insisting she had consented.

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Donaldson stated the girl and others had conspired against him.

He was today sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow having earlier been convicted of rape.

Lord Scott said it appeared Donaldson still believed he had done nothing wrong.

The judge: "There is no victim impact statement but it is well known the effects of rape can be severe and lifelong. Not merely causing 'a bit of upset' as you suggest when asked about the impact upon the victim.

"You maintain that she 'ganged up' with others to make up allegations against you...but the jury concluded otherwise. You seem to think you are the victim. The continuing support of your family is not a protective factor here.

"They do not believe you are guilty as 'you are not like that' - whatever that is. The jury decided you are exactly like that."

Donaldson was put on the sex offenders list indefinitely. He was further made the subject of a non-harassment order banning him from contacting or going near the victim for the next 15 years.

David Moggach KC, defending, earlier told the hearing that Donaldson can be "taken back from the brink" and rehabilitated to eventually be "a decent and upstanding citizen".

Scotland’s Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offending, Katrina Parkes said: "Darren Donaldson took advantage of a young girl who was incapable of giving or withholding consent. He will now face the consequences of his actions following this prosecution and conviction.

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

Police Scotland Detective Constable Mark Guild said: "My thoughts are with the victim who has shown immense strength in coming forward and assisting our investigation.

"I hope the sentence imposed on Donaldson brings her some form of comfort. We remain committed to supporting victims of sexual crimes and thoroughly investigating those responsible by bringing them to justice.

"I would urge people to come forward and report it to police. They can be assured of being fully supported by officers and partner agencies."