'Dangerous and violent' student who raped woman in Edinburgh as she slept jailed indefinitely
A ‘dangerous and violent’ rapist who sexually abused three vulnerable women in the space of nine months has been jailed indefinitely.
David Ekpe, 23, must serve a minimum of four years and six months in custody before he can be considered for release after he was made subject to an Order of Lifelong Restriction at the High Court in Edinburgh on Tuesday, December 16.
The court heard how the university student sexually assaulted one victim at an address in Grangemouth while she was intoxicated, asleep, and therefore incapable of giving consent. Less than three months later, Ekpe raped a second woman after meeting her and her friends during a night out in Edinburgh. She was asleep and intoxicated when Ekpe launched his attack.
A third woman was sexually assaulted after matching with Ekpe on a dating app. He drove her to a secluded location in Cumbernauld before attacking her. She managed to escape by running from the vehicle and flagging down a passing motorist for help.
Ekpe, whose offending took place in 2022 and 2023, was found guilty of three charges on November 19, 2024, following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh. Non-harassment orders, banning Ekpe from contacting or attempting to contact the three women, were also granted indefinitely. He His name has also been added to the sex offenders register for an indefinite period.
Faye Cook, Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, said: “David Ekpe poses a danger to women and has shown that he will exploit any vulnerability for his own selfish gratification. The prosecution led evidence from all three women which showed this man had engaged in a depraved pattern of sexually criminal behaviour.
“Ekpe has now been held accountable for his actions which I hope brings some comfort to those involved. COPFS will continue to do all that we can to hold perpetrators to account while supporting those affected through the prosecution process.”
Detective Inspector Gordon Couper added: "Epke is a dangerous, violent man who subjected these women to horrendous ordeals and deserves to face justice for his actions. I would like to commend the women for their strength throughout the legal process, and I hope this conclusion will help them as they move forward with their lives.
"I'd urge anyone who has been a victim of physical or sexual abuse to report it to us, regardless of when it happened. All reports are thoroughly investigated, and we have specially trained officers and partner agencies who will support you throughout."