Two young girls who were subjected to years of sexual abuse by an Elgin man have seen him jailed for a decade following proceedings at the High Court in Dundee.

Jonathan Hopson, 45, was sentenced on Wednesday after being found guilty at trial in May of a series of offences, including rape and sexual assault, committed between 2008 and 2023.

The offences took place in the Elgin area and involved two young girls over a period spanning 15 years.

As well as being sentenced to 10 years in prison, Hopson was handed a three year extension to his licence period, placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely and made subject to a non harassment order.

The sentence brings to an end a lengthy court process and means Hopson will remain under strict monitoring long after his release from prison.

Detective Constable Fiona Robertson said:

“Hopson is a manipulative and predatory individual and his despicable behaviour has caused significant harm.

“He will now face the consequences of his actions, and I hope this outcome provides some degree of closure to the girls he abused and their loved ones.

“We remain committed to investigating reports of child abuse and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.

“We would encourage anyone who has experienced or is aware of abuse to please report it.

“Every report is taken seriously and will be fully investigated, no matter how much time has passed, with support from our specially trained officers and partner agencies.”

Cases involving child sexual abuse can often take many years to come before the courts, with police and prosecutors relying heavily on victims and witnesses having the confidence to come forward.

The conviction and sentence mark the conclusion of criminal proceedings against Hopson and provide a measure of justice for those affected.

Anyone affected by sexual abuse or concerned about a child can contact Police Scotland or specialist support organisations for confidential advice and support.