Man convicted of raping three women in East Lothian

The case was heard at the High Court. Picture; Ian Georgeson

Charles Cassidy, aged 52, had denied the attacks on three women but was found guilty by a jury at Edinburgh High Court.

Over a 15 year period from 1984 onwards, he carried out the systematic abuse at addresses in Musselburgh and Prestonpans. He has been remanded in custody to be sentenced in December.

Detective Chief Inspector Debbie Forrester of the Domestic Abuse Task Force said: “Cassidy is a dangerous individual who repeatedly attacked these women and caused extreme harm and suffering. When we received information about Cassidy’s offending we were able to carry out a detailed investigation and gather evidence which has led to his conviction.

“Without the courage of his victims in coming forward and speaking out about their ordeals, we would not have been able to put him before the court so I want to take this opportunity to thank them, I hope that they can now derive some comfort from knowing he is now in prison.

“No-one should suffer such abuse and we will always listen, support and investigate thoroughly any reports that we receive, no matter how long ago the offences took place. There is no place for domestic abuse in Scotland and we continue to work hard to bring those responsible to justice.”