A man who raped a 12-year-old girl and then branded her a liar when his crimes came to light has been jailed.
Warren Gillespie, 41, had been left looking after the girl and other youngsters while their mother went for a night out.
He was reported in September of 2014 but said his child victim had been lying after he reprimanded her for keeping an untidy room.
Police launched an investigation and forensic analysis of clothing backed up the girl’s account of what had occurred.
He later admitted sexually assaulting and raping the girl and was convicted on November 21.
Today, appearing at Edinburgh High Court, Gillespie was sentenced to 7 years in prison for his crimes.
Detective Sergeant Barry Stewart said: “Gillespie targeted a vulnerable young girl and today he has been held accountable for his actions. Whenever incidents of child abuse are brought to our attention they will be fully investigated by specialist officers who will provide dedicated support.
“Gillespie’s victim should be commended for having the courage to come forward and report his actions. Such actions are absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“The police will always listens to victims of serious sexual crimes no matter when they occurred and will carry out a thorough investigation. We hope that this sentence will bring some form of closure for his victim and that she can now move on with her life.”