Sex Offender Faces Lengthy Jail Term After Convictions

John McKechnie, 32, was found guilty at the High Court in Edinburgh of multiple offenses including rape, possession of indecent images of children, and domestic abuse.

A jury convicted him on two charges, while he previously pleaded guilty to 14 other offenses. The court heard that McKechnie preyed on women and girls in West Lothian between 2015 and 2022.

Detective Inspector Adrian Ure of Police Scotland's National Child Abuse Investigation Unit condemned McKechnie's actions, stating, "John McKechnie's offending and behavior was appalling. He showed complete and utter contempt for the abuse he inflicted upon his victims, and the horrific sexual abuse featuring in the images and videos he was viewing."

Ure emphasized that there is "no hiding place for these offenders" and that McKechnie will now face the consequences of his actions. He also highlighted that any form of child sexual abuse is a serious crime and a priority for Police Scotland, urging anyone with concerns to contact the authorities immediately.

McKechnie is scheduled to be sentenced for the offenses next month.