Rapist who attacked woman and stole bank card from victim jailed

A rapist who attacked two women has been jailed for almost eight years.

Ricki Anderson attacked a woman, who has since passed away, during a journey between East Lothian and Dumfries on June 28, 2021.

He attacked a second woman at a flat in Dumfries in early 2022.

The 37-year-old appeared at the High Court in Glasgow to be sentenced having earlier been convicted of both rapes.

He was also guilty of two theft charges including stealing a bank card from the second woman.

Anderson, of Dumfries, admitted to a number of drugs charges during his trial earlier this year.

Lady Hood sentenced him to a total of seven years and nine months.

It emerged Anderson already had a lengthy criminal record including for drugs and dishonesty.

The judge told him: “These offences represent a significant escalation in severity.”

She added Anderson had tried to “minimize” his behaviour in a pre-sentencing report and had “lacked insight” into the harm he caused.

Anderson was put on the sex offenders list. He was further hit with a 15-year non harassment order banning him from approaching or contacting the victim still alive.

Iain Smith, defending, had earlier told the hearing: “He continues to deny the rape charges.”

Detective inspector Graeme Robertson of the public protection unit at Dumfries and Galloway Division said: “Although one of the victims in this case has passed away, it was right her evidence was heard in court through the reading of statements.

“Our thoughts remain with her family and the other victim, and I hope this sentencing offers them some comfort as they move forward with their lives.

“I would also like to reassure our communities that we are committed to investigating all reports of a sexual offence and we are determined to bring those responsible to justice.

“I urge anyone who has been the victim of any offence of this nature to contact us where you will be fully supported by our officers and partner agencies.”