An ‘unimaginably depraved’ former Aberdeenshire prison officer has been jailed after pleading guilty to raping a young girl and sexually assaulting another.
Russell Maitland, 37, was sentenced at the High Court in Aberdeen to 13 years in prison for multiple serious sexual assaults that took place between 2011 and 2022. Both girls were under the age of 13 during the horrific attacks.
On sentencing, Judge Summers said Maitland’s conviction stood “as a testament to the courage and strength of these girls who were prepared to give evidence to ensure that justice was done”. He added that the victims “struggle on a daily basis with the consequences of your abuse” and “hoped that following your conviction they will be able to move on and that these offences do not come to define them”.
In addition to his prison sentence, Maitland, from Peterhead, will also be monitored for three years following his release.
Detective Constable Karen Ivancic said: “The victims have shown great strength in coming forward to report Maitland’s offending and throughout the legal process. I hope the outcome in court will provide them with justice as they continue to move forward with their lives.
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“I’d encourage anyone who has been the victim of such offences to come forward and report it, regardless of when it happened. All reports are fully investigated and we have specially trained officers and partner agencies who will ensure you’re supported throughout.”
A Scottish Prison Service (SPS) spokesperson said: “We recognise the profound and lasting impact such crimes have on survivors.
“This individual was suspended whilst under investigation by Police Scotland, and is no longer employed by the SPS.”