A man described as having a dangerous sense of entitlement to sex has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for a series of violent sexual crimes.
Chronic Offender Found Guilty
Steven Mitchell, 41, was last month found guilty of six offences, including rape and sexual assault, following a trial at the High Court in Livingston. He had consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The crimes were committed against two women in the West Lothian area over a six-year period, spanning from 2016 to 2022.
Judge's Sentencing Remarks
At his sentencing on Wednesday, Judge Susan Craig highlighted the damning contents of a criminal justice social work report. The report characterised Mitchell's sexual offending as "chronic with a sense of entitlement to sex."
Judge Craig further noted the report's significant concern about Mitchell's "refusal to acknowledge that you have committed any aspect of these offences" and the conclusion that he is "unlikely to want to change your behaviour."
The court also heard that Mitchell made threats of violence against his victims. The official assessment formally described him as presenting a high risk of sexual reoffending.
Extended Sentence and Consequences
Mitchell was handed a 13-year extended sentence. This comprises 10 years in prison followed by a further three years on licence once he is released back into the community.
In addition to his custodial term, he has been placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely.
Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Peter Baxter stated: "Mitchell's abhorrent actions have caused significant harm to his victims, and we hope this outcome brings them some degree of reassurance."
He reaffirmed the police's commitment to investigating sexual abuse and encouraged any victims to come forward, assuring them of sensitive treatment and support from specially trained officers.
