A “depraved” former prison guard Paedophile, Russell Maitland, who refuted any sexual interest to children and said he raped two young girls for “a sense of danger and excitement,” has been sentenced to 13 years in prison.
Russell Maitland, 37, confessed to multiple charges, including the rape and sexual abuse of one girl and the sexual assault of another.
A court was informed that the initial victim experienced sexual assault from years four to twelve and rape from ages seven to eleven.
The second victim experienced sexual abuse from ages four to six.
Judge Summers informed Russell Maitland: “The charges to which you have pleaded guilty encompass a grievous array of sexual violence committed against two girls.”
The judge expressed worry regarding the criminal justice social work report, which indicated that while Russell Maitland acknowledged responsibility for the acts, he refuted having a sexual interest to youngsters.
Judge Summers remarked: “You propose that these offences were perpetrated due to a desire for ‘a sense of danger and excitement’.” That is challenging to acknowledge.
The judge observed that Russell Maitland’s maltreatment of the second victim persisted even after the first victim had reported his conduct to Police Scotland.
He asserted that Russell Maitland’s behaviour was for his “own aberrant sexual purposes”.
Judge Summers referenced the victim impact statements, observing that the girls “each endure daily struggles” as a result of Maitland’s abuse.
The judge stated: “Regarding each of these children, your offences were persistent and pervasive.”
“It was conducted multiple times over several years.”
Your misconduct was deliberate and predatory. It was nearly unfathomably immoral. It is difficult to grasp the damage that this will have inflicted.
The incidents occurred at Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, and in Aberdeen.
Russell Maitland received a 16-year enhanced sentence at the High Court in Aberdeen on Tuesday, comprising 13 years of incarceration and three years on licence upon reintegration into the community.
He was permanently placed on the sex offenders’ register and prohibited from contacting his victims.
Judge Summers remarked, “Sexual offences of this nature involving minors are especially reprehensible.”
“Such misconduct is intolerable, and it is the court’s duty to embody society’s condemnation of such behaviour.”
He stated: “Your conviction for these offences serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of these girls who were willing to testify to ensure that justice was served.”
“It is hoped that subsequent to your conviction, they will be able to progress and that these offences do not come to characterise them.”
Russell Maitland is reported to have been employed at HMP Grampian.
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) announced that he was suspended during an inquiry by Police Scotland and is no longer employed by the department.
A representative for SPS stated: “We acknowledge the significant and enduring effects these crimes have on survivors.”
Katrina Parkes, procurator fiscal for high court sexual offences, characterised Maitland as a “sexual predator who exploited vulnerable young children.”
She stated, “The prosecution and conviction have been made possible due to the bravery of the victims.”
Russell Maitland has now been held accountable for his reprehensible conduct, which I hope provides some solace to those impacted by his offences.
“We are dedicated to ensuring justice for victims of sexual abuse, irrespective of the identity of the perpetrator.”
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.