Man jailed for rape and indecent assault of girls more than 30 years ago

A man has been jailed after committing sex crimes against girls more than 30 years ago when he was a teenager.

Robert Haggart, 53, preyed on two younger children at addresses in Cowdenbeath, in Fife, and subjected one victim to rape.

Haggart was aged 13 when he began indecently assaulting his first victim in August 1987, when she was ten years old.

He subjected the girl to repeated attacks during which he seized her by the body, pushed her to the floor, removed her lower clothing and raped her.

Haggart, of Crediton, in Devon, went on to commit further indecent assaults on the victim from November 1988 in the Fife town when he exposed himself, grabbed her hair and carried out sex acts on the girl.

The teenage sex offender went on to target a second victim when she was aged 14.

On an occasion between August 1990 and February 1991, he used indecent behaviour towards the child.

Haggart had denied a series of charges during a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh but was convicted of three offences of rape, indecent assault and lewd and indecent behaviour.

Haggart was jailed for five years.

Detective sergeant Ross French from Fife Public Protection Unit said: “It is down to the strength and bravery of these women in coming forward and speaking to the police that Robert Haggart is now facing the consequences of his despicable actions.

“This outcome shows there is no time bar to reporting sexual offences and Police Scotland is committed to bringing those responsible to justice, regardless of when the crimes occurred.

“I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual crime to come forward and report it, knowing we will investigate thoroughly. We have specially trained officers who will support you throughout, as well as partner agencies.”