Man who escaped prison van told he may never be released after ‘bestial’ rape of girl

A 21-year-old man who escaped from a prison van during a transfer has been ordered to serve a lifetime sentence with no possibility of release, following his conviction for the sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl and multiple violent attacks. The sentencing took place at the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday, where Aaron Strachan was found guilty of the rape and two unprovoked assaults. He was also convicted of attempting to evade justice by fleeing from custody. Strachan's crimes began on May 25 of last year, when he targeted the 15-year-old girl near York Place in Edinburgh. According to court records, he approached her at a bus stop, followed her on camera, and eventually forced her into a basement where he sexually assaulted her. The incident occurred amid a series of violent acts, including an unprovoked stabbing of a man on South Bridge and an attack involving a hammer on another individual in High Riggs on May 28. These incidents were part of a broader pattern of violence that culminated in Strachan's escape from legal proceedings. Strachan had initially faced sentencing earlier this year but managed to flee while being transported from the Court of Session to a prison van following a hearing in January. A large-scale police operation ensued, leading to his recapture within hours. During Monday's hearing, Strachan pleaded guilty to all charges, including the attempt to undermine the judicial process by escaping. Judge Michael O'Grady KC presided over the case and delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing the severity of Strachan's actions. The judge described the rape as a "truly bestial crime," noting that Strachan had hunted down a vulnerable victim and subjected her to extreme fear and physical harm. The judge highlighted the psychological impact on the girl's family and the broader community, stating that such acts instill dread in parents who await their children's safe return. In addition to the sexual assault, the judge detailed the consequences of Strachan's other attacks. One victim sustained two knife wounds to his hand, while another suffered a fractured skull and internal bleeding after being struck with a hammer. The judge underscored the catastrophic nature of these injuries, indicating the profound effect on both victims' lives. Strachan's criminal history was also scrutinized, revealing numerous prior appearances in court related to 38 different charges, with eight involving weapon possession. This extensive record contributed to the judge's decision to impose a lifelong restriction order, ensuring Strachan would not be released unless determined to no longer pose a threat to the public. During the hearing, Strachan's defense attorney, Simon Collins, acknowledged the gravity of the offenses committed by his client. He stated that the legal repercussions were unavoidable given the seriousness of the crimes. The court viewed the footage of Strachan's escape, showing him slipping free from his restraints and fleeing from the scene, further illustrating the danger he posed to society. As the hearing concluded, Strachan remained restrained throughout the proceedings, displaying no visible reaction to the life-altering sentence. His future now rests entirely within the confines of the prison system, where he will likely reside indefinitely, barring any unforeseen circumstances that might lead to his eventual release.