A convicted rapist who caused women “considerable harm and distress” during sickening sexual and physical attacks is appealing his prison sentence.
Jamie Ironside preyed on his victims at addresses in Inverness between 2006 and 2012.
Following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh, the 38-year-old maintained his innocence even as he was being sentenced to four years in jail.
He was told by judge Lord Sandison that being a first-time offender and considered at “minimal risk” of reoffending had been taken into account.
But now, Ironside and his legal team Craig Wood Solicitors are launching an appeal against the custodial sentence.
The appeal is set to be heard before three judges on Thursday September 29.
Maintained his innocence
The High Court in Inverness had previously heard how Ironside preyed on his victims at addresses in the Highland capital, where he lived.
He was later convicted for crimes against one victim between January 2006 and February 2012 and targeting a second woman in 2012.
Ironside indecently assaulted the first victim, the court was told.
And jurors heard how he physically assaulted his second victim by throwing a mobile phone at the woman, pushing her onto the ground, choking her and later raping her.
Defence counsel Bert Kerrigan QC told Lord Sandison that his client still maintained his innocence and said Ironside had been of good character in recent years.
Lord Sandison gave Ironside three years for the indecent assault and four years for the assault and rape of the second woman.
He said both prison sentences would run concurrently.
‘Minimal risk of reoffending’
Passing sentence, Lord Sandison added: “I take into account that you are a first offender.
“I have also taken into account that you have been assessed of being at minimal risk of further reoffending.
“I have also taken into account everything that has been said on your behalf by your counsel Mr Kerrigan.
“However, your actions caused considerable harm and distress to your victims.  The jail terms will run concurrently.”
Ironside was also placed on the sex offenders register.