Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of Two Young Girls
Jonathan Hopson, aged 45, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls, including rape. The offences occurred in the Elgin area of Moray and were proven during an earlier trial.
The abuse against one victim took place between 2008 and 2010, while the offences against the second victim occurred between 2015 and 2017.
Extended Sentence and Supervision
At the High Court in Dundee, Hopson received an extended sentence of 13 years, which includes an additional three years of supervision following his custodial term.
Hopson was convicted after a five-day trial held at the High Court in Inverness the previous month. The charges included not only rape but also lewd, indecent, and libidinous behaviour.
Judicial Remarks on Sentencing
During sentencing on Wednesday, Judge Bain commented on the nature of the offences:
"The offences of which you were convicted represent a course of conduct systematically pursued by you, the most serious element of it being the rape of victim A."
"I am satisfied that both victims have sustained psychological harm and trauma.
There is no appropriate alternative to a custodial sentence."
Hopson has also been placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely as part of his sentence.
Police Statement
Detective Constable Fiona Robertson of Police Scotland issued a statement regarding the case:
"Hopson is a manipulative and predatory individual and his despicable behaviour has caused significant harm.
He will now face the consequences of his actions, and I hope this outcome provides some degree of closure to the girls he abused and their loved ones."
