A “despicable” sex predator who attacked four women during a campaign of abuse that spanned 17 years has been jailed.

James Wallace, or Carr, was convicted of a spate of offences, including a number of rapes and sexual assaults, as well as assaults to danger of life.

Police Scotland said the attacks occurred between 2004 and 2021 in Fife.

Judge Lord Lake noted that Wallace, 48, raped one of his victims while she was sleeping.

Lord Lake stated: “The harm done to your victims has been substantial and long lasting.”

The judge said there were physical injuries and “long-lasting pain”.

He added: “As is often the case, however, it was the psychological harm that had the longest effects.

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“Your victims speak of fearfulness, avoidance, flashbacks, anxiety, depression and PTSD.

“These matters affect their ability to socialise, their ability to form relationships and, importantly, their ability to enjoy life.

“It is clear that the trial itself has had an adverse effect on your victims and I hope that now it is done that will at least be one less concern and drain on their energy.”

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Wallace, who continues to deny his guilt, was convicted at Edinburgh High Court last month following a trial. His sentencing was held in Paisley on Thursday.

Lord Lake handed Wallace a 15-year extended sentence.

Wallace will spend 12 years in custody and three years on licence once released back into the community.

He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely and banned from contacting his victims for 20 years.

Following the court case, Detective Inspector Graeme McLaren said: “Wallace will now face the consequences of his despicable actions.

“I hope this sentence gives these remarkable women some comfort as they try to move forward with their lives.”

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